Kevin Bacon’s The Bondsman is set to premiere on Prime Video next week. As we eagerly anticipate watching our favorite dancing rebel portray a bondsman resurrected to pursue escaped demons into hell—a thrilling premise, indeed—and with a promising trailer to boot, let’s revisit some of Kevin Bacon’s most iconic roles in horror, sci-fi, and fantasy films throughout his extensive career.
The Impact of Kevin Bacon in Horror: Friday the 13th (1980)
Many actors start their careers in slasher films, but few can claim a notorious on-screen demise in such a cult classic as Friday the 13th. Bacon’s character, though not central to the plot, delivers one of horror’s most unforgettable moments with a dramatic arrow-pierced throat—thanks to the creative effects of Tom Savini. Could we see a cameo from him (as a different character) in the upcoming Peacock and A24 series, Crystal Lake?
Cult Classic: Tremors (1990)
While many of Bacon’s beloved titles in the late ‘80s and beyond straddle genres, he kicked off the 1990s with the iconic creature feature, Tremors. This film cleverly follows the classic 1950s formula of a small town facing monstrous threats while crafting relatable characters. Bacon’s charming and romantic reluctant hero, Valentine “Val” McKee, truly resonates with audiences.
Exploring the Unknown: Flatliners (1990)
In the same year he faced underground monsters, Bacon also tackled life—and death—as a medical student in Flatliners. Co-starring Kiefer Sutherland and Julia Roberts, Bacon delivers a poignant performance as the emotional core of Joel Schumacher’s supernatural thriller, inviting viewers into a chilling exploration of mortality.
Unveiling Dark Secrets: Stir of Echoes (1999)
Released just a month after The Sixth Sense, Stir of Echoes, directed by David Koepp, ventures into ghostly mysteries with Bacon starring as a Chicago father drawn into the disappearance of a neighbor girl. Despite initially overshadowed by its contemporaries, this eerie tale has garnered its own cult following—evidenced by Bacon’s recent collaboration with Koepp in the 2020 film You Should Have Left.
Modern Sci-Fi Thriller: Hollow Man (2000)
After a series of successful projects, director Paul Verhoeven returned to make Hollow Man, featuring Bacon as a modern-day Invisible Man. While the special effects may not hold up perfectly today, Bacon masterfully embodies the role, leaving audiences both fascinated and repulsed by the character’s descent into villainy.
Comic Book Villainy: X-Men: First Class (2011)
In Matthew Vaughn’s prequel, Bacon plays the formidable mutant Sebastian Shaw, a menacing former Nazi who faces off against Magneto. Shaw’s evil exploits and manipulations place him firmly in villain territory, yet it’s hard not to love Kevin Bacon’s wicked charm.
A Holiday Special: The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)
Bacon’s self-awareness shines as he takes on a humorous version of himself in this whimsical Disney+ special. Playing Peter Quill’s childhood hero, Bacon adds an extra layer of joy to one of Marvel’s most festive and playful projects.
End-Time Drama: Leave the World Behind (2023)
In the face of an apocalyptic scenario, wouldn’t it be comforting to have Kevin Bacon around, even if he plays a potentially untrustworthy doomsday prepper?
Health Care Villainy: The Toxic Avenger (2023)
After debuting at Fantastic Fest, the long-awaited The Toxic Avenger remake finally arrives with Bacon as the nefarious health-care executive denying essential medical claims. His portrayal is both timely and wickedly entertaining, showcasing his range as an actor.
Film Noir Twist: Maxxxine (2024)
Kevin Bacon’s role as a morally ambiguous private investigator in Ti West’s Maxxxine channels elements of classic films like Wild Things and Chinatown. His intense scene with Mia Goth’s character in and around Universal’s Psycho house only adds to the intrigue, solidifying Bacon’s storied connection to Hollywood in this flick.
The Bondsman is available for streaming on Prime Video starting April 3.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Kevin Bacon’s Filmography
What are the best horror films featuring Kevin Bacon?
Kevin Bacon is well-known for his roles in classic horror films, including
Friday the 13th and Stir of Echoes, making his mark in the genre with memorable performances.
Which sci-fi movies has Kevin Bacon starred in?
In addition to
Hollow Man, Kevin Bacon’s work in Tremors and X-Men: First Class showcases his versatility in sci-fi settings.
What is Kevin Bacon’s role in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise?
Kevin Bacon plays a comedic version of himself in
The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, where he is celebrated as a childhood hero of character Peter Quill.