Despite having a strong cast that includes Kevin Costner from Yellowstone, none of the main streaming services, including Netflix, HBO Max, or any others, now provide Open Range for streaming. It’s disappointing that the movie isn’t available on streaming platforms given how well-liked it is and how well it did at the box office and with critics. You will need to look for it on cable television or rent or buy it from a digital vendor in order to watch this classic Western.
Set in the early 1880s, Open Range tells the story of two cowboys, Boss Spearman (Robert Duvall) and Charley Waite (Kevin Costner), who are part of a group of free-grazing cattle drivers in the American West. The cowboys encounter trouble in a small town where the corrupt sheriff, Denton Baxter (Michael Gambon), and his men run things with an iron fist. Harassed, arrested, and with their friend Mose (Abraham Benrubi) beaten to death, Spearman and Waite are determined to seek revenge with the assistance of Sue Barlow (Annette Bening), a doctor’s sister residing in the town.
Kevin Costner directed, produced, and stars in Open Range, his second western after his Oscar-winning best picture Dances with Wolves. The movie was adapted from the Lauran Paine novel The Open Range Men, and Costner worked on the script with writer Craig Storper. Costner’s former production company, TIG Productions, produced the film, which was released by Touchstone Pictures.
When it comes to the making of the movie, Open Range has some fascinating lore. In order to make a scene where Kevin Costner’s character is supposed to be struck unconscious look more realistic, the veteran actor reportedly insisted on actually getting struck during filming. To the surprise of his co-star Robert Duvall, this resulted in him being knocked unconscious for around five seconds.
Another interesting fact about Open Range is that the film features a special breed of cattle called Texas Longhorns. To ensure that the cattle looked authentic and historically accurate, Kevin Costner reportedly purchased 150 steers and trained them for the movie. The Longhorns’ unique appearance helped to add to the film’s realism, making it an even more compelling and immersive experience for viewers.
Trivia aside, Open Range was shot on location in Alberta, Canada, and boasts breathtaking cinematography by J. Michael Muro. The film’s stunning visuals are complemented by an equally impressive soundtrack composed by Michael Kamen. The Kevin Costner-directed movie took home the Bronze Wrangler award for Best Theatrical Picture at the 2004 Western Heritage Awards.
Open Range was well-received by critics and audiences, with many praising Costner’s return to the Western genre. Critics praised the film’s performances, particularly those of Robert Duvall and Kevin Costner, who had excellent chemistry on screen. Moreover, Annette Bening was also hailed for her portrayal of the independent and strong-willed Sue Barlow.
Open Range has a fantastic supporting ensemble that includes Kevin Costner, Robert Duvall, and Annette Bening in addition to Michael Gambon, who gives a terrifying performance as the evil Denton Baxter. Michael Jeter, Diego Luna, and Abraham Benrubi are all excellent actors who excel in their roles. The actors were all perfectly cast in the film, giving their roles depth and realism.
Aside from its positive critical reception, Open Range also achieved box office success. Working on a production budget of approximately $22 million, the film grossed over $68 million worldwide. While that’s nowhere near the $424 million Kevin Costner’s previous western Dances with Wolves raked in, it was enough for the film to be considered profitable.
Open Range has become a favorite among fans of Westerns for many reasons, including its exceptional performances, beautiful cinematography, and engaging storyline. Kevin Costner’s direction is top-notch, and his portrayal of Charley Waite is undoubtedly a standout aspect of the film. The movie’s dedication to realism and historical accuracy also contributes to its enduring popularity among Western film fans.
Open Range might eventually be made accessible for streaming on one of the various services already offered. But at the moment, fans who want to see this vintage Western have to pay to rent or buy it from a digital store. Fans of Kevin Costner can also stream the actor in the well-liked contemporary Western series Yellowstone on Peacock.
