Anna Daniels
More than sixty years ago, the film “How The West Was Won” embarked on portraying America’s expansion towards the Pacific, a monumental project involving well-known directors and a star-studded cast. Despite its grandeur and scale, the film is criticized for its regressive politics and conflicting themes. However, there is still a mystique surrounding the audacity of its production.
Actor Kevin Costner’s directorial return with “Horizon: An American Saga—Chapter 1” seems to echo the challenges faced by “How The West Was Won,” attempting to address past issues while struggling under its own weight. The film leans on traditional Western tropes and weaves a slow narrative that takes time to gain momentum, making Costner’s appearance on screen occur an hour into the movie. The initial part of “Horizon” serves as a lengthy setup, lacking the urgency to stand on its own as a complete story.
The narrative unfolds in 1859 in San Pedro Valley, where a family’s tragic encounter with Apache warriors sets off a series of events leading to vengeance and survival. As the plot progresses, new characters are introduced in the Wyoming Territory, including Costner’s character Hayes Ellison, a horse trader who forms alliances in a rugged landscape. Despite Costner’s presence injecting some life into the film, his impact feels somewhat diminished due to the expansive ensemble cast.
The climax of the movie involves a wagon train journey through the Montana territory, spearheaded by a compelling performance from Luke Wilson. While Costner attempts to portray both Indigenous and settler perspectives, the balance tips more towards the latter, with limited screen time devoted to Indigenous characters. The depiction of white female characters as almost ethereal figures in contrast to their surroundings raises questions about authenticity.
Despite hints at a layered narrative with conspiracy undertones, “Horizon” struggles to truly break free from genre conventions and historical burdens. Costner’s legacy as the director of “Dances with Wolves” looms over the film, impacting its reception in a more critical landscape. While setting the stage for potential sequels, the movie falls short in delivering a compelling standalone experience, relying heavily on promised future developments.
This review is based on the Cannes Film Festival premiere and the movie is set to release on June 28th.
