The keyword phrase functions as a compound proper noun. It is composed of two distinct proper nouns: the title of a film, "Patriots Day," and the name of an actor, "Kevin Bacon." In this construction, the terms are not acting as separate parts of speech but combine to form a single, specific noun phrase that identifies the actor's connection to that particular film.
The 2016 film Patriots Day dramatizes the events of the Boston Marathon bombing and the ensuing investigation. Within this narrative, Kevin Bacon portrays a key historical figure: Richard DesLauriers, the FBI Special Agent in Charge who oversaw the investigation. His performance is a central part of the film's ensemble cast, which aims to provide a comprehensive portrayal of the law enforcement response to the terrorist attack.
Understanding this phrase as a specific proper noun is essential for information retrieval. It signals a precise user query seeking details about the intersection of these two entities, rather than a general inquiry about either subject individually. This allows search algorithms and databases to accurately return relevant information such as the actor's specific role, character details, and critical reception of his performance in the film.