The iconic, booming voice and physically imposing presence that embodied Prince Vultan, leader of the Hawkmen in the 1980 film Flash Gordon, belonged to none other than the celebrated British actor, Brian Blessed. Blessed’s portrayal of the boisterous, larger-than-life Vultan cemented the character’s place in cinematic history, becoming one of the most memorable aspects of the campy, yet beloved, space opera.
Blessed’s Journey to Vultan: More Than Just a Voice
Brian Blessed’s casting as Prince Vultan wasn’t merely a lucky break; it was a culmination of a career marked by powerful performances and a commanding stage presence. He brought a unique combination of theatricality, gravitas, and humor to the role, elevating Vultan beyond a simple villain to a complex character with a distinct personality. Blessed, known for his prodigious voice and booming laugh, perfectly embodied Vultan’s energy and pronouncements.
From Stage to Screen: Blessed’s Early Career
Blessed’s acting career began on the stage, where he honed his skills in classical and contemporary productions. He studied at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and quickly gained recognition for his talent. This theatrical background provided him with the essential tools to deliver Vultan’s over-the-top pronouncements with conviction and authenticity. Before Flash Gordon, Blessed also appeared in prominent television series such as Z-Cars and I, Claudius, proving his versatility.
Landing the Role: Auditioning for Vultan
The story of how Brian Blessed landed the role of Vultan is legendary. Blessed has recounted anecdotes describing his powerful audition, showcasing his natural ability to command attention. Director Mike Hodges recognized the potential in Blessed’s booming voice and imposing stature, realizing he was the perfect fit for the role of the Hawkmen leader. The role seemed tailor-made for his strengths.
Vultan’s Impact: More Than Just a Supporting Role
While Flash Gordon is centered on the titular character, Vultan, thanks to Blessed’s unforgettable performance, transcends the boundaries of a mere supporting role. Vultan’s moral ambiguity and eventual alliance with Flash Gordon provide crucial plot developments and added depth to the story.
A Character That Endures: Vultan’s Legacy
Vultan’s lines, particularly his iconic “Gordon’s alive?!” line, have become ingrained in popular culture. Cosplayers still adopt his appearance, and his character is frequently referenced in other media. This enduring appeal is a testament to the impact of Blessed’s portrayal and the character’s inherent charm.
Blessed’s Reflections on the Role: Pride and Affection
Brian Blessed has consistently expressed his fondness for the role of Vultan. He often recounts humorous anecdotes from the set and acknowledges the character’s significant impact on his career. He embraces the association, recognizing Vultan as a pivotal moment that endeared him to a global audience. He has spoken extensively in interviews about how much he enjoyed working on the film and how proud he is of the finished product.
Flash Gordon’s Legacy: Beyond Camp
Although often categorized as campy, Flash Gordon (1980) holds a special place in cinematic history. Its visually stunning sets, operatic score by Queen, and over-the-top performances combine to create a unique and unforgettable experience. Blessed’s performance is integral to this, adding layers of complexity and humor to the narrative.
Technical Marvels and Bold Choices
The film’s visual effects, despite their limitations by today’s standards, were groundbreaking at the time. The costumes and set designs were equally ambitious, creating a visually rich and immersive world. These technical achievements, combined with the cast’s bold performances, contribute to the film’s enduring appeal.
The Queen Soundtrack: An Iconic Score
Queen’s soundtrack for Flash Gordon is arguably one of the most iconic in film history. The bombastic music perfectly complements the film’s operatic tone, adding to its sense of grandeur and adventure. The soundtrack’s popularity has further cemented the film’s place in popular culture.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Brian Blessed and Vultan
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the nuances surrounding Brian Blessed’s role as Prince Vultan:
FAQ 1: What other notable roles has Brian Blessed played?
Beyond Vultan, Brian Blessed has enjoyed a diverse and prolific acting career. He’s been celebrated for his roles in Henry V, Blackadder, Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, and many stage productions. His versatility is one of his greatest strengths.
FAQ 2: Did Brian Blessed perform any of his own stunts in Flash Gordon?
While stunt doubles were used for some of the more dangerous sequences, Brian Blessed actively participated in many of his own action scenes, showcasing his physical commitment to the role. His robust physique allowed him to contribute significantly to the fight sequences.
FAQ 3: How did Brian Blessed prepare for the role of Vultan?
Blessed drew inspiration from historical figures known for their commanding presence and powerful voices. He also worked closely with the director to develop Vultan’s unique mannerisms and vocal delivery. A lot of his performance was improvised, adding to Vultan’s unpredictable nature.
FAQ 4: Was Brian Blessed aware of Flash Gordon’s cult following during filming?
While the film’s future cult status was uncertain during production, Blessed and the rest of the cast recognized the project’s potential for entertainment and its unique visual style. They embraced the camp aesthetic, which ultimately contributed to the film’s enduring appeal.
FAQ 5: Does Brian Blessed ever get tired of being asked about Flash Gordon?
Quite the contrary! Brian Blessed seems to genuinely enjoy discussing his role as Vultan and acknowledges its significant impact on his career. He understands its legacy and embraces the character’s popularity.
FAQ 6: What is Brian Blessed’s iconic “Gordon’s alive?!” line all about?
This line encapsulates Vultan’s surprise and delight upon discovering Flash Gordon’s survival. It’s delivered with such gusto and enthusiasm that it has become one of the most quotable lines in cinematic history. The power in Blessed’s voice makes the moment unforgettable.
FAQ 7: Is Brian Blessed really as loud in real life as he is in Flash Gordon?
Yes, Brian Blessed is known for his powerful voice in everyday life. He has even joked about shattering glass with his voice. His natural volume contributes to his distinctive persona.
FAQ 8: Has Brian Blessed ever returned to the role of Vultan in any other form?
While he hasn’t reprised the role in a sequel or remake, Brian Blessed has lent his voice to various Flash Gordon-related projects, including audio dramas and documentaries. He often attends conventions where he interacts with fans of the film.
FAQ 9: What makes Brian Blessed’s portrayal of Vultan so memorable?
It’s a combination of Blessed’s booming voice, imposing physical presence, and his ability to inject humor and humanity into the character. He balances the villainous aspects of Vultan with moments of surprising compassion, making him a complex and compelling figure. The sheer theatricality of the performance is also a major factor.
FAQ 10: Where can I watch Flash Gordon (1980) featuring Brian Blessed as Vultan?
Flash Gordon is widely available on DVD, Blu-ray, and various streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play Movies. It’s a cinematic experience best enjoyed on the biggest screen possible.
FAQ 11: What was the critical reception of Brian Blessed’s performance in Flash Gordon at the time of its release?
While the film itself received mixed reviews, Brian Blessed’s performance as Vultan was generally praised for its energy, humor, and memorability. Critics acknowledged that he brought a unique and captivating presence to the screen.
FAQ 12: What lasting impact has Brian Blessed’s role as Vultan had on his career?
The role of Vultan significantly boosted Brian Blessed’s profile, solidifying his status as a character actor and opening doors to a wider range of roles. It remains one of the most recognizable roles of his illustrious career, ensuring his place in cinematic history and popular culture. He became a household name, and the role cemented his legacy.