Western fans, if you’re disheartened by the delay of Kevin Costner’s “Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2,” there’s a new film to lift your spirits: “National Anthem.” This indie Western is making waves and has even been declared the best Western film of the year, a title that might sting for Costner’s loyal followers.
The trailer for “National Anthem” might initially seem like a playful jab at Costner’s traditionalist fanbase, but the film offers a refreshing take on the Western genre. Unlike Costner’s lengthy and somewhat shapeless attempt to recreate classic Westerns, “National Anthem” is a concise 99 minutes and brings a contemporary twist to the genre by blending themes of open-West freedom, American community, and the queer experience.
Directed by photographer Luke Gilford, “National Anthem” is inspired by his collection of photographs documenting the United States’ queer-rodeo subculture. The film starts with a familiar indie setup: a struggling family with a reckless alcoholic mom, played by Robyn Lively, replacing the archetypal hard-drinking gambler dad. The protagonist, Dylan (Charlie Plummer), takes on odd jobs to support his mother and younger brother, while secretly saving money for a dream of his own.
Dylan’s life takes an unexpected turn when he lands a job at a ranch owned by Pepe (Rene Rosado). There, he meets Sky (Eve Lindley), a transgender woman and Pepe’s girlfriend. The ranch serves as a sanctuary for queer individuals, blending rodeo culture with queer performance. Through a series of well-directed and well-acted scenes, Dylan begins to explore his own identity, spending more time at the ranch, much to his mother’s dismay.
The film’s strength lies in its subtlety. It avoids the typical conflicts seen in many queer films, such as overt pain and oppression. Instead, it offers a quiet catharsis through its low-key sweetness and the genuine affection between Dylan and Sky, even when Sky insists their relationship is just for fun. The film is visually stunning, shot on 35mm film, capturing the rich colors of New Mexico landscapes and big-box stores alike.
However, Gilford’s photographic approach means the film sometimes prioritizes imagery over character development. The characters often drift through the frame, and the film occasionally veers into languid, mushroom-fueled desert sex scenes. Despite this, the performances by Plummer and Lindley are compelling, even if they sometimes feel a bit ethereal.
“National Anthem” stands out for its gentleness in a genre typically filled with violence and conflict. Some might argue it’s not a Western in the traditional sense but more of a coming-of-age drama. Yet, for the Western genre to evolve into the 21st century, it needs films like “National Anthem” that break away from tradition while still using familiar iconography.
In contrast, Kevin Costner’s “Horizon: An American Saga” is an epic undertaking, consisting of four interconnected films that tell a 12-year story of settling the American West. The first two movies are set for U.S. theatrical release this summer, with the first having premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Costner has self-financed the project, even risking his homes to fund it. He remains confident in his work, stating, “I don’t think anybody’s else’s movie is better than mine. I made it for people.”
Costner’s dedication to the Western genre is undeniable. He has been dreaming of making “Horizon” since at least 1988, and his son Hayes, who makes his acting debut in the film, is named after the main character. Costner’s passion for the project is evident, but the delay of “Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2” has left fans waiting.
While Costner’s epic saga is a testament to his love for the Western genre, “National Anthem” offers a fresh and contemporary take that has resonated with audiences and critics alike. Its recognition as the best Western film of the year highlights the genre’s potential to evolve and embrace new narratives.
For those looking for a Western that feels both familiar and new, “National Anthem” is a must-watch. It’s a film that challenges traditional Western tropes while offering a heartfelt and visually stunning story. So, while we wait for Costner’s “Horizon,” “National Anthem” is here to fill the void and perhaps even set a new standard for the genre.
Source: The Daily Beast, Entertainment Weekly
