Kevin Costner's Infamous Sci-Fi Epic "Waterworld" Finds New Life on Streaming

Kevin Costner's Expensive Sci-Fi Flop Heads to a New Streamer

A divisive box office film, Kevin Costner’s Waterworld has long stood at the crossroads of failure and cult fame. The ambitious 1995 science fiction adventure, often remembered for its massive budget and turbulent production, is now resurfacing for a new audience as it sails to Starz in December 2025.

The Journey of a Cult Classic

Released nearly three decades ago, Waterworld envisioned a future where the polar ice caps have melted, submerging most of Earth. Kevin Costner stars as the “Mariner,” a drifter navigating endless oceans in search of dry land and survival. Despite its initial rocky reception and staggering production costs—reported at over $170 million—the movie later gained a loyal fan following for its daring world-building and practical effects.

From Box Office Misfire to Beloved Reappraisal

At the time of release, Waterworld was considered one of Hollywood’s most audacious and expensive gambles. Critics were divided, and audiences were slow to warm up to its bleak yet imaginative setting. Over the years, however, the film has found redemption among fans who praise its originality, environmental theme, and Costner’s stoic performance.

Streaming Revival

Starting December 2025, Waterworld will be available to stream on Starz, introducing the maritime dystopia to a new generation of viewers. This move continues the trend of revisiting past cult favorites and reintroducing them through modern streaming platforms.

“A notorious box office bomb to some and a beloved cult classic to others, Kevin Costner’s Waterworld is swimming onto a new streaming home.”

Author’s Summary

Kevin Costner’s ambitious 1995 sci-fi adventure Waterworld, once deemed a costly flop, returns to the spotlight as it begins streaming on Starz in December 2025.

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Collider Collider — 2025-11-28

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