Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1

Horizon: An American Saga is an upcoming film series crafted by the renowned actor and filmmaker Kevin Costner. This ambitious project will consist of four films that delve into the rich and often tumultuous history of the American West, primarily set during the periods before and after the Civil War.

Costner not only directs the films but also plays a leading role. He co-wrote the screenplay with Jon Baird based on an original story that included contributions from Mark Kasdan. The narrative will focus on fictional characters who embark on a journey into the frontier, capturing the essence of the pioneering spirit and the conflicts that arose as settlers moved into Native American territories.

Since 1988, Costner has been dedicated to developing this screenplay, motivated by a desire to inspire audiences through genuine historical storytelling. Over the years, he transformed the film from a two-lead project into a comprehensive ensemble piece that chronicles over a decade of American history, including the profound impacts of the Civil War. Through these films, Costner aims to present a more nuanced perspective of the interactions between settlers and Native Americans, emphasizing the complexities of their experiences.

Costner's journey to bring this vision to life has seen various production hurdles. Initially, he had discussions with Disney, but upon discovering budget limitations, he decided to pursue other options. His determination led him to invest $38 million of his own funds into the project, along with support from private investors. As of May 2024, he confirmed that the series will include at least four installments, and he expressed a personal urgency to see the project completed, especially for the sake of his son, Hayes, who is set to play a character in the films.

Production began for the first two chapters of the series, with filming locations primarily in Utah. The first installment, titled Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, is set for release on 28 June 2024, while the second chapter is expected to premiere at the Venice Film Festival on 7 September 2024. However, the release of Chapter 2 has faced delays due to the underwhelming box office performance of the first film.

Throughout the project's development, Costner has also navigated challenges tied to his involvement in the popular television series Yellowstone, including contract disputes and strikes affecting the industry. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to completing the saga, which is designed to pay homage to classic westerns while addressing contemporary issues faced by cowboys and Indigenous people.

The series features an impressive cast, including notable actors like Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, and Jena Malone, among others. Costner plans to release each chapter four to six months apart, with hopes that families will come together to enjoy the films in theaters.

As the project progresses, Costner has expressed his intention to ensure that the quality of the films reflects the classic western's legacy while also making them relatable to modern audiences. The anticipation surrounding Horizon: An American Saga continues to grow as more details about the film series are unveiled.