“Horizon: An American Saga. Chapter 1.”

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“Horizon: An American Saga. Chapter 1.” (Max via Amazon Prime). Historical western. Directed, co-written, produced, and starring Kevin Costner, this first of three chapters is as long as Mr Costner's 1990 “Dances with Wolves” classic: 181 minutes. But “Horizon/Chapter I” may as well be Episode 1 of a regular Western drama, three hours are basically lead-up plot points to Chapter 2. The “saga” started out strongly, with 3 or 4 substories, then it lumbered on, with doors to indulge some more in the next Chapter. 



       Pre-theater release PR of the epic was high. But it was easily clobbered by an animated film, I think. I expect though that the monumental project that boasts of a 2-film budget of $100 million will recover in Chapter 2.  Chapter 1 worldwide gross take was a measly $27.8 million.

       What is wrong with the first part of Kevin's ambition? As I noted above, it started in blazing fire (literally as well) but the moment Hayes Ellison (Costner) showed up, the development of the plot points sputtered.  

       Maybe we are simply led to a heightened drama in Chapter 2? I will check it out. But whenever it is shown by Max, I don't think many viewers will be interested. Yet I high-five or fist-bump Mr Costner for the grandiose initiative. We already have so many gender politics, superhero bombast, and culture-war feeds in Hollywood lately. “Horizon” is a welcome relief. 🎥💻📽

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