These days, Kevin Costner is recognized as the face of the modern West, a role he began to embrace in the early 2000s. However, long before Costner took on this role, the late Robert Duvall was making his mark as one of Hollywood’s most impressive stars — whether in Westerns or other genres. Therefore, when Costner cast Duvall in his 2003 Western feature, Open Range, he made a humble decision for a filmmaker who directed, starred in, and produced the film: he gave Duvall top billing.
Kevin Costner Honored Robert Duvall By Giving Him Top Billing For ‘Open Range’
Although not his most acclaimed or ambitious Western drama, Kevin Costner truly excelled with the often-overlooked Open Range. Inspired by the Western romance novels of his youth, Costner crafted this two-person drama as a love letter to the American West that reflects on the necessity of violence by men who do not seek it themselves. Despite his heartfelt effort, Costner chose not to take top billing for the post-Civil War epic, offering it instead to Robert Duvall, who arguably delivered his finest Western performance aside from <em>Lonesome Dove</em> as “Boss” Spearman. While the film is undeniably Costner’s, whose vision for the mythic West is evident in every frame (as well as in his portrayal of Charley Waite, a cowboy deserving of his spurs), he clearly holds his elder in high regard. “I did that as a tribute to him,” Costner once told the Daily News. “He’s such a great actor, and he deserved that.”
Robert Duvall Dead at 95; Legendary Actor Defined a Generation of American Cinema
The actor had a prolific career spanning over 6 decades.
Costner’s decision to give Duvall top billing reportedly touched the actor deeply. The AMC Blog once noted that Duvall was already impressed with Costner as a filmmaker after Dances with Wolves, so this decision only moved him further. It is no surprise, as these two clearly share an on-screen bond that likely extended off-camera as well. Open Range is a tour de force of Western filmmaking featuring not only one of the best shootouts in modern horse operas but also some of the most intimate character moments between two aimless cowboys who share an unbreakable bond of loyalty. Although Costner is indeed the star here, the film would not have succeeded without Duvall’s portrayal of Spearman, which contrasts sharply with his most famous Western role as Gus McCrae.
‘Open Range’ Is an Underrated Western Triumph Perfected by The Fabulous On-Screen Duo
Costner and Duvall shine in Open Range. Their chemistry is among the best in the genre, and the stark contrast between Spearman’s present and Waite’s potential future adds a meditative touch that showcases sheer artistry. Costner’s loyal and determined Charley Waite stands by his “Boss” regardless of orders, and together they are willing to fight to the death for justice for their fallen comrades. The way Duvall’s character influences Costner’s character, urging him to pursue the life he never had, resonates with their off-screen relationship as well. It is evident that Costner viewed Duvall almost as a mentor, and this respect led to his humble acknowledgment.
“Robert Duvall is a very specific actor and a natural actor,” Costner once told film critic Robert Ebert. “I wasn’t looking for someone who would play Boss as a character but someone who would give me a hold-the-screen type Boss…” For Costner, casting Duvall was never about recreating the magic of his performance in Lonesome Dove, but rather about showcasing Duvall’s impressive talents in a way that enhances his own performance as Charley Waite. “There’s a key scene in the café which I think is an AFI moment for Bob. I stand behind him and don’t say a word.” Of all Costner’s Western features, perhaps his most underrated is Open Range, a film that exceeds all expectations due to its leading men’s performances. While Duvall may not have been the lead, he more than earned that top billing credit here. With Duvall’s passing, there’s no better time to revisit this film.
Open Range is available to stream on AMC in the U.S.
