Kevin Bacon Talks About Horror History and MaXXXine in Recent Interview
The latest installment in A24’s showbiz-focused slasher franchise, MaXXXine, directed by Ti West, has hit theaters, and it features Kevin Bacon in a standout role. Bacon, who plays John Labat, an unethical private detective with a Cajun accent and a distinctive look, shared his experiences and thoughts on the film and his career in a recent interview.
In MaXXXine, Bacon’s character is seen running across the screen in a white suit, chasing after Mia Goth’s Maxine Minx. Despite the physical demands of the role, Bacon proudly stated that he performed all his stunts himself. “No stunt double! No stunt double!” he exclaimed, recalling the rigorous takes and the challenge of keeping up with Goth during the chase scenes filmed at Universal Studios backlot.
Bacon’s career in horror began with the legendary slasher film Friday the 13th in 1980. Reflecting on his extensive work in the genre, Bacon expressed his appreciation for horror films, despite their historical reputation as the “ugly stepchild” of the movie business. He noted that horror often provides actors with intense, high-stakes scenarios that are rich with dramatic potential.
One of Bacon’s notable horror roles was in Hollow Man, a film that explored the dark possibilities of invisibility. Directed by Paul Verhoeven, the movie allowed Bacon to delve into the complexities of a character who makes morally questionable choices. Bacon praised Verhoeven’s unique filmmaking style and the opportunity to work with him.
When asked about his favorite horror roles, Bacon highlighted Stir of Echoes, a film he described as grounded and emotionally resonant. He shared the unfortunate timing of its release, which coincided with the success of The Sixth Sense, overshadowing Stir of Echoes despite its merits.
Bacon also revealed his interest in remaking the Japanese horror film Audition for American audiences, though the project never came to fruition. He emphasized the film’s potential and his belief that it could resonate with a broader audience.
Discussing his involvement in MaXXXine, Bacon recounted how he reached out to Ti West after becoming a fan of the first two films in the trilogy. Their initial conversation led to West offering him a role in the third installment. Bacon appreciated the collaborative process with West, who encouraged him to fully embrace the character’s eccentricities.
Bacon’s dedication to his craft extends to creating detailed backstories for his characters. For MaXXXine, he took a trip to Louisiana to immerse himself in the setting and develop a deeper understanding of his character. This commitment to authenticity is evident in his performance as the sleazy detective.
The actor also shared his thoughts on the unique challenges of horror acting, comparing it to comedy in terms of the need for precise timing and emotional investment. He emphasized the importance of staying true to the character and the story, regardless of the genre.
Bacon’s death scene in MaXXXine, which involved a lifecast and prosthetics, was a memorable and gruesome moment. He humorously recounted the audience’s reaction to his character’s demise in another film, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, where his on-screen death was met with applause.
Looking ahead, Bacon is excited about his upcoming Blumhouse-produced show, The Bondsman, which promises a mix of horror, humor, and family dynamics. He expressed his enthusiasm for the 30-minute format, which allows for a fast-paced and engaging storytelling experience.
Reflecting on his long and varied career, Bacon attributed his longevity to staying busy, maintaining a positive attitude, and practicing gratitude for the opportunities he’s had. He remains passionate about his work and continues to seek out challenging and diverse roles.
In MaXXXine, Bacon’s performance as John Labat adds another memorable character to his extensive filmography. The film, which explores the dark side of Hollywood in the 80s, is a fitting addition to the horror genre and a testament to Bacon’s enduring talent and versatility.
Source: Men’s Health, Vanity Fair
