Kevin Costner's career has been a rollercoaster, with moments of immense success and periods of struggle. However, his recent struggles have brought him to a low point, and a recent exposé in The Hollywood Reporter has shed light on some controversial aspects of his current situation. From his alleged difficult behavior on the set of Yellowstone to his financial troubles with the Horizon series, it seems Costner's reputation is taking a hit. But here's where it gets interesting: the article claims that his biggest flop was Waterworld, a film that allegedly kicked off his commercial downfall.
Unveiling the Truth: Waterworld's Legacy
Contrary to popular belief, Waterworld wasn't the disaster it's often made out to be. In fact, calling it a flop is a gross exaggeration. When it premiered in 1995, Waterworld faced mixed reviews, but it opened to a respectable $21 million domestically and eventually grossed $264 million worldwide. While it didn't turn a profit initially, its performance was far from the catastrophic failure often associated with it.
The Production Woes
Waterworld's production was indeed troubled. As a post-apocalyptic sci-fi film, it was a risky venture for Universal Pictures. Costner, fresh from the flop Wyatt Earp, teamed up with Kevin Reynolds to create an oceanic epic. Despite Steven Spielberg's warnings about shooting in the open ocean, they forged ahead, leading to a nightmarish shoot. Waves, bad weather, and a sinking set plagued the production, pushing the budget to an estimated $175 million.
A Profitable Turn?
According to a 2013 analysis by Deadline, Waterworld wasn't the flop it's perceived to be. While its high budget made it a disappointment, it wasn't on the same level as notorious flops like The Adventures of Pluto Nash or Cutthroat Island. In fact, with the rise of home entertainment and streaming, Waterworld might have even turned a profit.
Costner's Comeback and Career Woes
Costner's career took a hit after Waterworld, but he bounced back with Tin Cup and Message in a Bottle. However, his box office success has been elusive for the past 22 years. Despite attempts to secure funding for the Horizon series, Costner's financial struggles continue.
So, is Waterworld really the flop that ruined Costner's career? Or is it a misunderstood film that suffered from bad timing and high expectations? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss this controversial aspect of cinema history!
