Kevin Bacon’s portrayal of Ren McCormack in the 1984 classic “Footloose” catapulted him to stardom. However, it wasn’t always a sure thing that Bacon would land the role. Initially, the studio had reservations about casting him. At the time, Bacon was primarily known for his supporting role in “Diner” and wasn’t considered “sexy enough” to play the rebellious Chicago teen who shakes up a small town with his dance moves.
Despite the studio’s doubts, “Footloose” director Herb Ross saw potential in Bacon. To convince the studio, Ross filmed a scene run-through featuring a young Bacon in top form. This rare audition tape, now included as an extra on the upcoming “Footloose” Blu-ray, offers a fascinating glimpse into Bacon’s early career.
In the audition clip, Bacon reflects on his performance, noting his admiration for James Dean. “You can tell that I’d been watching a lot of James Dean movies at the time. I was a big James Dean fan,” Bacon says. He critiques his approach to a scene where he checks himself out in a Beetle’s rearview mirror before being surprised by his date’s beauty. “To tell you the truth, there’s things about this screen test that I think I did better in the screen test than in the movie,” Bacon admits.
The actress trading lines with Bacon in the audition is Haviland Morris, who played Jake Ryan’s girlfriend in “Sixteen Candles,” another 1984 release. In the final film, the role went to Lori Singer, known for her work on the TV show “Fame.”
Fans can compare Bacon’s screen test to the finished scene in the movie. The “Footloose” remake, starring Kenny Wormald and Julianne Hough from “Dancing with the Stars,” is set to hit theaters on October 14.
This rare glimpse into Bacon’s audition process offers a unique perspective on the making of “Footloose” and highlights the actor’s journey to becoming a household name. The audition tape not only showcases Bacon’s talent but also serves as a testament to the director’s vision and belief in his potential.
As fans eagerly await the release of the “Footloose” Blu-ray, this vintage audition tape is sure to be a cherished addition to any collection. It provides a nostalgic look back at a pivotal moment in Bacon’s career and the making of a beloved film.
The release of this rare footage comes at a time when fans are celebrating the legacy of “Footloose” and its impact on popular culture. The film’s iconic dance scenes and memorable soundtrack continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic.
Kevin Bacon’s journey from a relatively unknown actor to a major star is a testament to his talent and perseverance. The release of this vintage audition tape offers a rare opportunity to see the early stages of his career and the making of a film that would go on to become a cultural phenomenon.
As the “Footloose” remake prepares to hit theaters, fans can look forward to revisiting the original film and experiencing the magic of Kevin Bacon’s performance once again. The vintage audition tape serves as a reminder of the hard work and dedication that went into creating a film that continues to captivate audiences decades later.
In sharing this rare footage, Kevin Bacon offers fans a unique glimpse into his early career and the making of “Footloose.” It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a celebration of a film that has left an indelible mark on popular culture.
The release of the “Footloose” Blu-ray, complete with this rare audition tape, is sure to be a hit with fans old and new. It provides a fascinating look at the making of a classic film and the early career of an actor who would go on to become a Hollywood icon.
As we celebrate the legacy of “Footloose” and the impact it has had on popular culture, this vintage audition tape serves as a fitting tribute to the film and the talent of Kevin Bacon. It’s a must-see for fans and a valuable addition to any collection.
Kevin Bacon’s rare vintage audition tape from “Footloose” is a treasure trove of nostalgia and a testament to the enduring appeal of the film. It offers a unique glimpse into the making of a classic and the early career of a beloved actor. Fans can look forward to experiencing the magic of “Footloose” once again with the release of the Blu-ray and this rare footage.
