In a recent interview, renowned actor and director Kevin Costner emphasized the importance of creating films with audiences in mind rather than focusing on political agendas. Speaking at Michael Rubin’s Fanatics Super Bowl party in New Orleans, Costner highlighted that movies should aim to entertain and connect with viewers, regardless of their political leanings. His comments come as Hollywood navigates changes following President Trump's appointment of several actors as "special envoys" to attract business back from foreign markets. Costner also discussed his ambitious four-part film series, Horizon: An American Saga, which has faced some challenges but continues to progress.
Audience-First Approach in Film-Making
In the vibrant city of New Orleans, during a star-studded Super Bowl event hosted by Michael Rubin, Kevin Costner shared his thoughts on the essence of filmmaking. The acclaimed artist, known for his roles in various blockbuster hits, stressed that the best movies are those crafted with the audience in mind. He believes that while not every film needs to be profound or meaningful, it must always consider its viewers. “Movies don’t have to be important, but they have to resonate with people,” Costner explained. This philosophy underscores his belief that cinema should transcend politics and focus solely on engaging the audience in the darkened theater.
Costner's reflections come against the backdrop of significant changes in Hollywood. Just weeks prior, President Donald Trump appointed actors Mel Gibson, Sylvester Stallone, and Jon Voight as "special envoys" to revitalize the American film industry. Despite these developments, Costner remains steadfast in his conviction that the heart of filmmaking lies in connecting with the public.
Meanwhile, Costner has been actively working on his ambitious project, Horizon: An American Saga. The first chapter premiered in theaters in June 2024 but encountered box office challenges, leading to a shift to digital streaming. Chapter 2 was initially slated for an August release but was postponed. Undeterred, Costner showcased the film at prestigious events like the Venice International Film Festival in September and the Santa Barbara Film Festival in February 2025. During the latter, he provided a sneak peek into the upcoming third chapter, hinting at his long-term vision for the series.
Beyond Horizon, Costner is also featured in the new Fox Nation docuseries Yellowstone to Yosemite with Kevin Costner, which explores the natural beauty of the American West. The series debuted on Fox Nation, with more episodes set to follow weekly.
From a journalist's perspective, Costner's emphasis on audience-centric filmmaking serves as a timely reminder of the power of storytelling. In an era where entertainment often gets entangled in political discourse, Costner's approach offers a refreshing return to the fundamentals of cinema—entertainment and connection. His dedication to creating meaningful experiences for viewers, despite industry challenges, exemplifies the enduring spirit of filmmaking.