Kevin Bacon, known for his versatility and iconic roles, has delivered stellar performances throughout his career. Here’s a list of his best movies based on Rotten Tomatoes scores:
Footloose (1984)
Rating: 52%
Description: In this iconic dance drama, Kevin Bacon stars as Ren McCormack, a teenager who moves to a small town where dancing is banned. His rebellious spirit ignites a movement among the town’s youth to overturn the oppressive rules. “Footloose” is a quintessential ’80s movie that solidified Bacon’s status as a leading man.
Apollo 13 (1995)
Rating: 96%
Description: Directed by Ron Howard, “Apollo 13” chronicles the harrowing true story of NASA’s ill-fated mission to the moon. Bacon plays astronaut Jack Swigert, who, along with his crew, faces a life-threatening crisis in space. The film is a gripping depiction of teamwork and human resilience.
Mystic River (2003)
Rating: 88%
Description: In this intense drama directed by Clint Eastwood, Bacon portrays Sean Devine, a homicide detective investigating the murder of a childhood friend’s daughter. The film’s exploration of trauma and revenge is bolstered by Bacon’s compelling performance alongside Sean Penn and Tim Robbins.
A Few Good Men (1992)
Rating: 84%
Description: Bacon plays Captain Jack Ross, a military prosecutor in this courtroom drama directed by Rob Reiner. The film, famous for its powerful performances and memorable lines, sees Bacon squaring off against Tom Cruise’s defense attorney in a riveting legal battle over a Marine’s death.
The Woodsman (2004)
Rating: 88%
Description: In one of his most challenging roles, Bacon stars as Walter, a convicted sex offender trying to rebuild his life after prison. The film delves into difficult themes with sensitivity and showcases Bacon’s remarkable ability to evoke empathy for a deeply flawed character.
X-Men: First Class (2011)
Rating: 86%
Description: Bacon takes on the role of the villainous Sebastian Shaw in this prequel to the X-Men series. His portrayal of the mutant with energy-absorbing powers adds a sinister edge to the film, which explores the origins of the X-Men universe.
Diner (1982)
Rating: 92%
Description: Barry Levinson’s coming-of-age drama features Bacon as Timothy Fenwick Jr., one of a group of friends navigating life and relationships in 1959 Baltimore. “Diner” is celebrated for its realistic dialogue and ensemble cast, with Bacon’s performance standing out as particularly memorable.
Tremors (1990)
Rating: 88%
Description: In this cult classic, Bacon stars as Valentine McKee, who, along with his friend, battles giant, worm-like creatures terrorizing their small town. “Tremors” combines horror and humor, and Bacon’s charismatic performance is a key reason for its enduring popularity.
Frost/Nixon (2008)
Rating: 93%
Description: Directed by Ron Howard, this historical drama features Bacon as Jack Brennan, chief of staff to former President Richard Nixon. The film centers on the famous interviews between Nixon and British journalist David Frost, with Bacon providing strong support in this gripping political narrative.
Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011)
Rating: 79%
Description: Bacon plays a supporting role as David Lindhagen, the man who disrupts Cal Weaver’s (Steve Carell) life by having an affair with his wife. The film is a charming and heartfelt exploration of love and relationships, with Bacon adding a touch of drama to the comedic proceedings.
Additional Credits
Murder in the First (1995)
Rating: 50%
Description: Directed by Marc Rocco, this film sees Bacon as a young Alcatraz prisoner being framed for murdering other inmates despite being in solitary confinement for three years. Christian Slater plays the lawyer defending him. Bacon earned a SAG Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role.
The River Wild (1994)
Rating: 59%
Description: Directed by Curtis Hanson, this thriller features Bacon as a criminal menacing a family on a white water rafting trip. Meryl Streep stars as the mother trying to protect her family. Both Bacon and Streep received Golden Globe nominations for their performances.
JFK (1991)
Rating: 84%
Description: Directed by Oliver Stone, this controversial film delves into the conspiracy theories surrounding President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Bacon plays a male hustler providing crucial information to Kevin Costner’s character. The film received eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.
Wild Things (1998)
Rating: 64%
Description: Directed by John McNaughton, this thriller features Bacon as a police officer investigating a rape accusation against a high school guidance counselor. The film is known for its plot twists and intriguing storyline, with Bacon’s performance adding to its allure.
