Kevin Costner received a warm welcome at the Cannes Film Festival as he premiered his highly anticipated film, "Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1". The Hollywood star, known for his love for the western genre, took a major risk by partially self-financing the ambitious project, which is planned as the first installment of a four-part saga.

Costner, who rode into Cannes with cowboy swagger, made a memorable entrance on the red carpet, delighting the crowd with finger pistols and cheers. Inside the Grand Lumiere Theatre, he was greeted with extended applause, including from guests wearing cowboy hats, as the first public screening of the film began.

The three-hour screening captivated the audience, culminating in a standing ovation that lasted for around ten minutes. Costner took the opportunity to express his gratitude, remarking, "It's not mine anymore. It's yours. I knew that the minute this was over. And that's the way it should be." He emphasized the importance of sharing the movie's story with loved ones, saying, "I hope you do share this movie with your sweethearts, with your children."

"Horizon" represents a decades-long passion project for Costner, who struggled to secure financing from studios. Undeterred, he decided to invest $20 million of his own funds into the film, even taking out a loan against his Santa Barbara home. Despite the financial risks, Costner is determined to bring all four chapters of the saga to the big screen.

Having achieved success in both film and television, Costner's commitment to the western genre has solidified his status as one of its biggest advocates. His transition to TV with the miniseries "Hatfields & McCoys" set a trend for other A-list movie stars, and he has since captivated audiences in the hit series "Yellowstone".

To maximize the potential success of "Horizon", Costner opted for a bold release strategy. The first two installments of the saga will be released in close succession, with Chapter 1 set to hit North American theaters on June 28, followed by Chapter 2 in August. Warner Bros. will handle domestic distribution, although they are not financially involved in the project.

While the Cannes audience appeared to appreciate the film, not all critics shared the same opinion. The Hollywood Reporter chief film critic David Rooney described "Horizon" as a "clumsy slog," comparing it unfavorably to some of Costner's previous works. However, the star-studded cast, including Sienna Miller, Jena Malone, and Isabelle Fuhrman, garnered praise for their performances.

Costner concluded his remarks at Cannes by assuring the audience that three more films in the "Horizon" saga are on the horizon. He expressed his gratitude, stating, "It's just another miracle in my life. I hope this time was worth it for you."

As fans eagerly await the release of "Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1", Costner's dedication and passion for the project promises an unforgettable cinematic experience that will continue to resonate for years to come.