Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter 1 is a film by Kevin Costner that builds upon the foundation of the pre- and post-Civil War era. I found myself enthralled with the movie due to its aesthetic value set amidst the turmoil. Horizon: An American Saga is just the beginning as the second chapter opens later in August. Although the lengthy film dragged at time, I was sold.

The dynamics in the story take place in the years 1861 to 1865. There are many events taking place throughout Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter 1. One event features a settlement built in Apache territory. Another event is an Apache raid that leads to several deaths as well as families without homes. A third event involves Indigenous land and moral codes not finding common ground. Territory, race, ownership, politics, and authorities clash and boil during this saga. It is an aching ride of conflicts.

The film’s writing is vast when it comes to the personality of authority, Lt. Trent Gephardt (played by Sam Worthington). Heleads the people who have lost homes to safety in a sanctuary camp. The issues related to safety do not stop in Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter 1. It all starts with one man marking his territory via land from the beginning.

The film also grapples with a couple trying to make ends meet through sales. They are Ellen (played by Jena Malone) and Walter (played by Michael Angarano). This is during a time when essential resources for the masses are limited. With thecomplicated moving parts and obstacles encountered inuncharted territory, the film does a fantastic job staying present in the Civil War era.

Even along the trails, the film feels like the computer game The Oregon Trail. There are individuals who try to collect water for use. They journey throughout Kansas and the Santa Fe area. The commander is Matthew Leyden (played by Luke Wilson). He makes it his mission to make sure there is water collected. The conflict comes about when they cross lands that have restrictions. The challenges during the Civil War go deeper than many anticipate and makes for a spellbinding story.

Now many may ask what Costner’s role is in the film. Costner plays Hayes Ellison, a drifter in the Wild West scenes in the film. He is the hero of the franchise. He may only come around sporadically, however, his role has a sense of purpose. Hayes knows the layout of the lands. He has an idea of where the confrontations happen. Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter 1 is like Tetris focused on history where conflicts arise, battles are won, or lost in defeat.

The vast scenery of Wyoming and the Montana Territory captured my imagination as they created an ambiance of grandeur. It also made me wonder if any of the same lands will be used in the second chapter.  The first chapter is a breathless adventure where revelations come to life. The authorities of the good, the bad, and the wealthy all fight for their land. Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter 1 is just over three hours. But with its in-depth focus, it sparks curiosities which may make the next chapter an even more enticing adventure. Three-and-a-half out of four stars for Horizon: An American Saga-Chapter 1.