A Rough Start for Costner’s Passion Project

Kevin Costner’s return to the Western frontier isn’t riding into the sunset as smoothly as fans hoped. Horizon: An American Saga — the first part of Costner’s ambitious multi-film series — debuted at the Cannes Film Festival to underwhelming reviews and a surprisingly low Rotten Tomatoes score.

Costner, who directed, co-wrote, and stars in the epic, aimed to capture the spirit of the American West in a sweeping saga reminiscent of Dances With Wolves and Open Range. But early critics weren’t convinced, calling the film sprawling, uneven, and overly long.

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Critics Call It Ambitious but Uneven

BBC critic Nicholas Barber described Horizon as a “beautiful but frustrating film,” praising its grandeur yet questioning its pacing and structure. Others echoed similar sentiments, suggesting the story felt more like a setup for future installments than a standalone movie.

Despite its breathtaking landscapes and emotional performances, reviewers said the film struggled to find a balance between spectacle and substance. The early Rotten Tomatoes score reflected this divide, disappointing fans who had eagerly awaited Costner’s grand return to the genre.

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Hope Still Rides on the Horizon

While the early reaction may sting, it’s far from the final verdict. Audience response often diverges sharply from festival criticism, and Costner’s devoted fan base could still embrace Horizon once it hits theaters.

The film’s ambitious scale and authentic portrayal of frontier life might resonate more deeply with moviegoers than with critics. With additional chapters already planned, there’s still time for Costner’s vision to fully unfold.