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When it comes Kevin Bacon movies, Tremors is undoubtedly up there with the actor’s best work. But for him, the film wasn’t always held in the highest regard.
Bacon has enjoyed an illustrious career spanning decades, starring in critically acclaimed hits such as Footloose, Apollo 13, and Mystic River. However, Tremors was initially a source of deep regret for the actor. The 1990 monster-horror-comedy has since gained cult status, spawning multiple sequels, a television series, and a devoted fanbase. But when Bacon first took the role, he was far from enthusiastic about it.
Reflecting on his mindset at the time, Bacon recalled, “I had begrudgingly done it. I was broke, I had a kid on the way, and my mom had gotten sick, and I felt like I didn’t have a choice — I was like, ‘Jesus, this is a movie about underground monsters, how far I’ve fallen.’”
At the time, Bacon had already experienced a rollercoaster of success and setbacks. Footloose had made him a household name in 1984, but the years following were marked by a mix of box office disappointments and career uncertainty. The idea of starring in what appeared to be a B-movie about subterranean killer worms seemed like a low point in his trajectory.
Tremors was a “magical time” for Kevin Bacon
Making Kevin Bacon movies – Tremors (1990)
However, once production on Tremors began, Bacon’s perspective started to shift. He described the experience as a “magical time,” particularly because of his close collaboration with co-star Fred Ward and the life-changing moment of welcoming his first child. Despite his initial hesitations, the camaraderie on set and the hands-on nature of the special effects made the experience more rewarding than he had expected.
“The super cool thing about Tremors is that Tremors is all practical effects,” Bacon said. “It was all guys in puppets or people with things on their hands, and wires being pulled. It was ingenious. Acting with a puppet requires some acting, but we’re professional pretenders.”
Special effects work in Tremors (1990) featuring puppetry and practical effects.
Unlike modern monster movies that rely heavily on CGI, Tremors was crafted with tangible, practical effects. The underground creatures, known as Graboids, were brought to life using a mix of animatronics, miniatures, and full-scale models, which added a level of realism and physicality to the actors’ performances.
One of the most rewatchable Kevin Bacon movies
Tremors – one of the most entertaining Kevin Bacon movies.
Though Tremors was not an immediate box-office hit, it found success through home video and cable television, gradually cementing its place as a beloved cult classic, and one of those Kevin Bacon movies that continues to thrill fans, reminding them of his charismatic potential in lead roles. Over the years, Bacon’s attitude toward the film evolved. He has since embraced Tremors as a highlight of his career and has acknowledged the immense love that fans continue to show for it.
Despite the film spawning multiple sequels and even a short-lived TV series, Bacon did not reprise his role as Val McKee – until nearly three decades later. In 2018, a pilot for a new Tremors series was shot, with Bacon returning to his iconic character. Unfortunately, despite the enthusiasm surrounding the project, networks passed on it, and it never made it to air. Even so, Bacon has continued to celebrate the film’s legacy, often engaging with fans and recognizing its unique place in cinema history.
From reluctant star to Tremors enthusiast, Kevin Bacon’s journey with the film reflects how time and perspective can transform an actor’s relationship with their work. What was once seen as a desperate career move has now become one of his most cherished projects – proving that sometimes, the unexpected roles leave the deepest impact.
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From “Footloose” To “Tremors”: Kevin Bacon’s Best Movies
Whether it’s a romantic lead or a formidable villain, a cop with a good heart or a cop with insidious intent, a friend or a foe, Bacon brings a credibility to every role that is never less than compelling.
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