Long before Kevin Costner starred in the hit TV show “Yellowstone,” he was an icon of the Western genre. But Taylor Sheridan’s beloved drama is one of the primary reasons that Costner is as relevant as he is in the modern era. That’s undoubtedly how he was able to finally secure the financing to make his passion-project. But it also might be part of the reason that “Horizon” had a very limited appeal on opening weekend at the box office. In short? Audiences already have a sprawling Kevin Costner-fronted Western at home.
In the era of streaming and too much stuff to watch for any one person to handle, choices must be made. “Yellowstone” is readily available on streaming and many viewers have enjoyed their time with Costner on the show. So sure, maybe those same people would be interested in seeing him in a sprawling, Civil War-era film saga. But is it interesting enough to leave the house and spend the money on a ticket, not to mention concessions, especially since this is just the first part of a multi-film investment? It’s a lot to ask. For as much as the show probably helped Costner get this movie made, it might have also hurt its prospects theatrically. Maybe Costner should try and cut a deal to return in the final few episodes of “Yellowstone” after all.
We spoke more about the film’s box office performance (as well as several other topics) on today’s episode of the /Film Daily podcast, which you can listen to below:
“Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1” is in theaters now.