Kevin Costner Challenges Delicate Approach to Native American Representation in Horizon: An American Saga

In his latest film, Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1, Kevin Costner addresses the sensitive issue of Native American representation onscreen. The renowned actor and filmmaker aims to portray the nuances of Native American characters without explicitly spelling them out, hoping that audiences will understand the complexities of their stories.

The Western genre has a long history of problematic depictions of Indigenous people, often portraying them as nameless "savages" or tragic figures who sacrifice themselves for white settlers. Horizon initially seems to follow this pattern, focusing on the brutal massacre of the settlement of Horizon by Apache attackers. However, as the film progresses, it delves deeper into the lives of the Native characters, exploring their internal conflicts amidst the disruptive influence of the settlers.

Set in the American West over a span of 12 years, Horizon reveals the struggles faced by Native tribes as they contend with limited resources and clash with one another due to the encroachment of settlements. Pionsenay, played by Owen Crow Shoe, takes center stage as he leads the massacre but later breaks away from his Chief to form a new tribe dedicated to protecting their land.

Costner, known for his acclaimed film Dances With Wolves, which received cooperation and blessings from the Lakota people, is not concerned about opening the movie with a potentially stereotypical depiction of Native Americans. He expresses frustration with the delicate approach surrounding such portrayals, stating, "The reality is it was one tent too many, and the [Apache] went down there, and they tried to wipe the [settlers] out." Costner believes that audiences should be willing to watch how the storyline unfolds and not be limited by preset expectations.

The actor-filmmaker also emphasizes the importance of showcasing the conflicts between Native tribes resulting from Westward expansion. He explains that the presence of settlers' tents forces tribes to alter their paths, leading to unexpected contact and tensions with other tribes.

Kevin Costner's Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1 is now playing in theaters, inviting audiences to explore the complex and layered portrayal of Native American characters. The film challenges viewers to look beyond stereotypes and understand the anger and struggles faced by Indigenous peoples during the period of Westward expansion. Chapter 2 of the saga is set to debut on August 16.