Cannes 2024: Kevin Costner tearful during standing ovation for ‘Horizon: An American Saga’
Cannes Film Festival kicked off on May 14th, welcoming a string of highly anticipated film premieres, such as Kevin Costner’s expansive production Horizon: An American Saga.
The western film has been divided into two parts, with Chapter 1 set for widespread release in cinemas on June 28th. However, those in attendance at the premiere have already experienced the epic movie, which has a lengthy three-hour runtime. After the film was over, it received a seven-minute standing ovation, much to Costner’s delight, who was left in tears.
Having pummelled a large amount of money in the film with Costner deciding to re-mortgage his own ranch to fund the project, it marks his most expansive production yet. However, in his speech, he teased several more instalments following Chapter 2, which is set for release on August 16th.
Addressing the adoring audience, Costner said, “I’m sorry you had to clap that long for me to understand that I should speak. Such good people. Such a good moment, not just for me, but for the actors that came with me, for people who believed in me who continued to work. It’s a funny business, and I’m so glad I found it. There’s no place like here. I’ll never forget this — either will my children.”
Horizon: An American Saga features a large cast, with Costner leading the movie. Alongside him are actors such as Sienna Miller, Giovanni Ribisi, Sam Worthington, Jena Malone, Jamie Campbell Bower, Danny Huston, Abbey Lee, Michael Angarano and Luke Wilson.
The film comes after Costner has played several career-defining roles in western movies and directed various entries to the genre throughout his tenure in Hollywood. His most successful work is the Oscar-winning Dances with Wolves, released in 1990, which took home two of the most coveted prizes at the ceremony: ‘Best Director’ and ‘Best Picture’.
The genre is extremely close to his heart, and Horizon: An American Saga feels like a natural next step. With a budget of over $100 million for the two parts, Costner’s ambitious project chronicles the American West’s expansion.
An official description of the film explains that it “explores the lure of the Old West and how it was won—and lost—through the blood, sweat and tears of many,” taking place between 1861 and 1865. It has been described as “an emotional journey across a country at war with itself, experienced through the lens of families, friends and foes all attempting to discover what it truly means to be the United States of America.”
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