Kevin Costner’s grand vision for the Western saga, Horizon: An American Saga, is currently embroiled in substantial conflict due to a recent arbitration claim against its production team. According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, the production company is facing a legal standoff with New Line over their co-financing arrangement. Reports indicate that City National Bank has initiated arbitration involving both parties, which has compelled New Line to file a counterclaim for repayment against Horizon Series.
The agreement between Horizon Series and New Line explicitly outlines a mutual obligation to reimburse a segment of the financing. New Line argues that they are entitled to compensation for the financial commitments that were not fulfilled by their partner, while City National Bank asserts that they are owed an even larger amount. In this complex situation, neither New Line nor City National Bank, nor even Territory Pictures—Costner’s own production entity—has made any public statements regarding the matter.
Costner’s aspiration for Horizon was to create an expansive story, envisioned as a four-part series in which he serves as director, writer, co-financer, and lead actor. However, the initial chapter, Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, failed to make a significant box office impact, grossing merely $38 million against a hefty production budget of $100 million. In an attempt to curb financial losses, Territory Pictures and New Line opted to release the film on premium video-on-demand platforms and Max during its theatrical run. These measures, however, leave the prospects for future installments hanging in the balance.
Last year, the production of Chapter 3 ran into difficulties, unable to secure complete financial backing, yet filming proceeded in hopes that Chapter 4 would follow swiftly. In the face of financial uncertainty, Costner has had to take on some personal financial risks, contributing funds himself alongside those from undisclosed investors. Under the terms of their agreement, he deferred his salary, used his exquisite waterfront home in Santa Barbara as collateral, and has reportedly put in over $50 million of his own money into the project.
The future of the remaining chapters in Costner’s Horizon saga is shrouded in uncertainty. The weight of possible failure is palpable for him, as such an ambitious undertaking demands considerable time, resources, and emotional dedication. During his participation in The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast last year, Costner openly admitted to needing support, sharing, “I need more funding — I truly do. I require some of those billionaire individuals who flaunt their wealth with extravagant yachts to come alongside me in this endeavor,” adding, “I don’t have their financial clout and have already committed to making two films. Where are all the affluent investors?” His appeal resonates with those devoted to storytelling, highlighting a common struggle many creatives endure.
Interestingly, our editor-in-chief, Chris Bumbray, contends that Horizon: An American Saga warrants a fresh perspective, suggesting its true value is underestimated in light of recent box office setbacks. He remarked, “I believe this movie will be better appreciated with the release of subsequent parts; I was thoroughly captivated from start to finish,” expressing optimism about the saga’s future. “If the second installment were available right now, I would want to dive right into it immediately; I eagerly await more from Costner’s expansive story.”
What are your thoughts on the challenges Costner is facing with Horizon? Should he consider stepping back, or is it better for him to continue pushing forward? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
