Kevin Costner’s self-funded Western project “Horizon” has reached a resolution in its legal confrontation with the United Costume Corporation, which had accused the production of failing to pay nearly $350,000 in fees. While the specifics of the settlement remain undisclosed, the production company submitted a request for dismissal on Thursday.
The legal troubles began when Costner’s loan-out company, Horizon Series, was sued in May over alleged breaches concerning costume expenses for “Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1,” as well as its upcoming sequel. The original lawsuit included an invoice for $58,000 related to costumes for the first installment, and a further $285,000 for rental fees in the following year, as United Costume had entered a contract intending to provide costumes for “Chapter 2” as well.
This lawsuit is one among several that have surfaced against the “Horizon” team. New Line Cinema previously filed an arbitration claim against Horizon Series over alleged violations of a co-financing agreement. The studio has opted not to release the second part of the Western saga in order to cultivate anticipation for the franchise, which was scheduled for release in 2024.
Additionally, stunt actress Devyn Labella has filed a lawsuit against Costner and his production company, citing allegations of sexual discrimination and harassment tied to an impromptu rape scene in May. Labella has updated her case with new evidence, which includes text messages sent to an intimacy coordinator describing her concerns about the scene as a “reckless violation of consent and basic workplace safety.” Costner’s legal team has countered her account of events.
Costner has played multiple roles in the creation of “Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1,” including directing, co-writing, and partially financing the film. Initially, the story was intended to span four installments, with “Chapter 2” expected in theaters shortly after the first but now delayed due to the first installment underperforming at the box office, grossing $38 million on a production budget of approximately $100 million. The status of “Chapter 3” remains uncertain as Costner and his team seek to secure full financing for the project.
Despite the challenges, there is hope that with the settlement and ongoing production efforts, Costner’s ambitious vision for the “Horizon” saga can still come to fruition. The franchise, if successfully continued, has the potential to engage audiences with its compelling narrative and strong performances.