Costner's Folly
A few words about a podcast about Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1
A few weeks ago, like the good American I am (I’m Canadian who lives in Canada), I went out to the theatre with my good buddy Jesse Hawken to see Kevin Costner’s new epic western extravaganza, Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, the first part in a planned four-part theatrical event. The next day, we recorded a podcast about it for Jesse’s excellent and eclectic show, Junk Filter. The episode was a Patreon exclusive for Jesse’s subscribers (and you should subscribe if you enjoy movies and the esoteric), but he has also given the file to me, to share with you, my paid subscribers.
A funny thing happened, though, after we recorded the episode. Horizon Chapter 2 had been intended to come out just six weeks later, but after dire box office returns for the reported $100 million project, the release was scuttled. Reports are that Costner and Warner Bros. still plan to give the film a theatrical release eventually, but are looking to build an audience for Chapter 1 on streaming in the interim. It’s already available for premium rental on VOD.
The news, which came out before Jesse was able to release his podcast episode, meant we got the opportunity to record a supplemental “Breaking News” segment, which you’ll hear tacked on to the end.
Along with the problematic box office, the episode also has us discussing the film itself, which we both liked (i liked it more than Jesse), Costner’s fascinating career, his divorced guy energy, and his very particular brand of liberal politics.
To hear all of that and more, sign up for a paid subscription to my newsletter, which will also get you access to exclusive writing, including an upcoming, ongoing series searching for a Big Mac Cinema canon. Alternatively (or additionally), go sign up for a subscription to Junk Filter. I’ve been on the show several times, if you’re looking to hear my voice more often for some masochistic reason, or if you want to hear from Jesse’s array of guests on topics ranging from Steely Dan to Cannon Films.
Check out the Junk Filter episode on Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1 after the paywall: