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Understanding the financial landscape of ‘Horizon’
Kevin Costner, a name synonymous with Hollywood success, is currently navigating a turbulent financial landscape with his ambitious film project, ‘Horizon: An American Saga’. The first chapter of this Western saga has recently gained traction on Netflix, drawing impressive viewership numbers.
However, behind this success lies a story of financial strain and creative challenges that have left Costner in a precarious position.
The struggle for theatrical success
Despite the initial excitement surrounding the release of ‘Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter One’, the film faced disappointing box office returns, grossing only $36 million against a staggering $100 million budget.
Critics were not kind either, with the film receiving a mere 51% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This poor reception has raised questions about the viability of the franchise, especially as the sequel, ‘Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter Two’, has yet to secure a theatrical release date.
Netflix as a potential savior
As Costner grapples with the fallout from the first installment, he is reportedly looking to Netflix for a lifeline. Insiders suggest that the streaming giant is currently the only entity with the financial resources to help him recover from the significant losses incurred during the production of the films.
With the first chapter performing well on the platform, there is hope that Netflix might step in to purchase the rights to the entire series, allowing Costner to settle his debts and continue his creative vision.
The irony of a streaming success
Interestingly, Costner initially envisioned ‘Horizon’ as a streaming series rather than a collection of films. The unexpected success of his previous project, ‘Yellowstone’, shifted his perspective, leading him to pursue a big-budget film approach. Now, as he finds himself in an eight-figure financial hole, the irony of relying on a streaming service to salvage his cinematic dreams is not lost on him.
Future prospects for the franchise
Despite the setbacks, Costner remains committed to the ‘Horizon’ saga. He has confirmed plans to direct and star in the third installment, with principal photography already underway. The success of the first chapter on Netflix could be pivotal in determining the future of the franchise, as it may influence the streaming giant’s decision to invest further in the series. For Costner, the stakes are high, and the next eighteen months will be crucial in shaping the destiny of ‘Horizon’.
