In a shocking turn of events, Hollywood veteran Kevin Costner is facing legal action over an unscripted and controversial ‘intimate scene’ in his latest film, Horizon 2. The lawsuit, filed by stuntwoman Devyn LaBella, alleges that she was coerced into performing a graphic scene that was neither in the script nor previously discussed. This incident has sparked a wider conversation about consent, safety protocols, and the treatment of performers in the film industry.
The Allegations: A Breakdown
Unscripted and Unapproved Scene
According to the lawsuit, on May 2, 2023, LaBella was unexpectedly directed by Costner to perform a graphic simulated rape scene during the filming of Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2. LaBella, who was doubling for lead actress Ella Hunt, claims that the scene was neither in the script nor previously discussed. She alleges that she was not given prior notice, rehearsal time, or the presence of an intimacy coordinator, all of which are standard safety protocols in the industry.
Violation of Industry Protocols
The lawsuit further asserts that the production violated SAG-AFTRA protocols, which require prior notice and approval for intimate scenes. LaBella claims that the incident caused lasting emotional trauma and derailed her career. She also alleges that she was excluded from future productions following the incident.
Denial of Allegations
Costner, through his attorney, has denied all allegations, asserting that LaBella consented to the scene and expressed satisfaction afterward. The defense claims that LaBella made no complaints during filming and even attended a thank-you dinner with a stunt coordinator.
The Impact on the Film Industry
Raising Questions About Consent
This incident has raised serious questions about the importance of consent and communication on film sets. The lack of prior notice and the absence of an intimacy coordinator highlight the need for stricter adherence to industry protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of performers.
Calls for Industry Reform
In the wake of this lawsuit, there have been calls for greater accountability and transparency in the film industry. Advocates are urging for the implementation of more robust safety measures and the establishment of clear guidelines to protect performers from potential exploitation and harm.
The Future of ‘Horizon 2’
Critical and Financial Challenges
The controversy surrounding this lawsuit adds to the challenges faced by Horizon 2. The film has already encountered critical and financial difficulties, with mixed reviews and underwhelming box office performance. The ongoing legal issues may further tarnish the film’s reputation and affect its commercial success.
Potential Legal Consequences
If the court finds in favor of LaBella, the production companies involved could face significant legal and financial repercussions. The lawsuit seeks damages, a public apology, mandatory sexual harassment training, and the use of intimacy coordinators in future productions.
Conclusion
The lawsuit filed against Kevin Costner over the unscripted ‘intimate scene’ in Horizon 2 serves as a stark reminder of the importance of consent, communication, and adherence to industry protocols in the filmmaking process. As the case unfolds, it may set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future, potentially leading to significant changes in industry practices to better protect performers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the lawsuit against Kevin Costner about?
The lawsuit alleges that Kevin Costner directed an unscripted and graphic ‘intimate scene’ during the filming of Horizon 2, violating industry protocols and causing emotional distress to stuntwoman Devyn LaBella.
2. Who is Devyn LaBella?
Devyn LaBella is a stuntwoman who was doubling for actress Ella Hunt in Horizon 2. She claims she was coerced into performing a graphic scene without prior notice or consent.
3. What are SAG-AFTRA protocols?
SAG-AFTRA protocols are guidelines established by the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists to ensure the safety and well-being of performers, including requirements for prior notice and approval for intimate scenes.
4. What is an intimacy coordinator?
An intimacy coordinator is a professional who ensures that intimate scenes are performed safely and consensually, providing guidance and support to performers and facilitating communication between the cast and crew.
5. How might this lawsuit impact the film industry?
This lawsuit may prompt the film industry to reevaluate and strengthen its protocols regarding consent and safety, potentially leading to the implementation of more robust measures to protect performers.
