“Faith Guided Them”: Kevin Costner Reveals the Spiritual Roots of ‘Horizon’

Kevin Costner, renowned for his impactful roles and directorial prowess, delves into the spiritual and historical with his latest cinematic venture, “Horizon: An American Saga.”

Costner, 69, attributes the inspiration behind this narrative to the unwavering faith of pioneers. “Faith guided these adventurers into the unknown,” Costner explained, revealing his connection to the Baptist church, subtly influencing his filmmaking.

“Horizon,” a sweeping three-hour saga, marks the beginning of a four-part series. It boasts a star-studded cast that includes Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, and Luke Wilson. The film’s journey starts in theaters on June 28, and its sequels are slated for release through 2025.

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Civil War from 1861 to 1865, “Horizon” explores the expansive and dangerous landscapes of Moab, Utah.

Costner’s dedication to the project is evident. He has nurtured it since the 1980s and invested $38 million of his own funds. He shared, “This project required a belief in its timing, reflecting the unpredictable nature of life and career.”

Although “Horizon” is not explicitly a faith-based film, it incorporates spiritual elements that resonate throughout the story. One poignant scene features a settler reciting Psalm 91 in a crisis, illustrating the settlers’ reliance on scripture during dire times.

Family themes are also central to the narrative, highlighted by the appearance of Costner’s son, Hayes, portraying Nathaniel Kittredge.

Costner emphasized the dual nature of violence and humanity within the story, expressing his hope that the film will bridge generational gaps and convey the harsh realities faced by ancestors.

Despite its R rating, Costner envisions the film as a teaching tool for younger audiences, stressing the importance of understanding familial and national heritage.

With his previous accolades, including two Oscars for “Dances With Wolves” and a Golden Globe for his role in “Yellowstone,” Costner aims for “Horizon” to further enrich the legacy of American Westerns, offering a nuanced view of America’s formative years.

Costner concluded, “This film is about authenticity and the raw human conditions of the era. It’s about the great cultural clashes and the immense courage of those who ventured west.”