30 Years Ago, Kevin Costner’s Post-Apocalyptic Drama Became One of the Most Expensive Films Ever Made

When Kevin Costner’s Waterworld hit theaters in 1995, it was impossible to ignore the controversy behind the production. At the time, with an estimated budget of $175 million, it was the most expensive film ever made, a record that reflected its ambitious vision of a water-based post-apocalyptic world. But the film’s large scale and setting, shot primarily on the water, created major challenges, driving up costs and delays, making Waterworld a high-risk gamble for Universal Studios.

Despite the struggles and the media frenzy around its budget, Waterworld didn’t crash and burn as expected. While its U.S. box office earnings were underwhelming, it found success overseas and had a second life in home video, TV reruns, and even a popular theme park stunt show. Though it never became the major blockbuster studios predicted, Waterworld still made its name in pop culture, evolving from a financial risk to a cult classic.