The year 2000 saw the release of The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas, a prequel to the beloved 1994 live-action Flintstones movie. This vibrant and comedic film took audiences back to Bedrock before Fred and Barney became household names, showcasing their courtship of Wilma and Betty. For actor Alan Cumming, this movie presented a unique opportunity to dive into the Stone Age, not just in one, but two memorable roles.
Alan Cumming as The Great Gazoo in The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas
In The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas, Cumming brilliantly embodied the quirky and otherworldly character of The Great Gazoo. This green alien, dispatched from the cosmos to observe Earthling mating rituals, became an unexpected and hilarious guide for Fred and Barney’s romantic escapades. The role of Gazoo required Cumming to embrace the fantastical, a task that was achieved through extensive blue screen filming and elaborate prosthetics. He recounts the somewhat uncomfortable experience of being suspended in a harness on a sound stage, acting opposite paper plates bearing the names of Fred and Barney. Despite the physical challenges, the sheer novelty and fun of portraying such an iconic character in filming The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas made it a worthwhile adventure.
Alan Cumming as Mick Jagged in The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas
Adding to his prehistoric portfolio in the film, Alan Cumming also took on the persona of Mick Jagged, a Stone Age rock star. This role allowed him to channel a different kind of energy, embodying a charismatic and captivating performer who catches the eye of Betty Rubble. Filming The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas offered Cumming the chance to showcase his versatility, playing both a whimsical alien and a rock and roll idol within the same movie.
The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas movie poster featuring Alan Cumming as Gazoo
The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas boasts a talented cast including Mark Addy as Fred Flintstone, Stephen Baldwin as Barney Rubble, Jane Krakowski as Wilma Slaghoople, and Kristen Johnston as Betty O’Shale. Directed by Brian Levant, the film aimed to capture the lighthearted and family-friendly spirit of the original cartoon series, bringing the prehistoric town of Bedrock to life with vibrant visuals and comedic performances.
While reflecting on his experience filming The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas, Alan Cumming highlights the unique and somewhat surreal nature of the Gazoo role. Despite the physical demands of blue screen acting and prosthetics, the opportunity to tell his nieces and nephews that he was playing Gazoo in a Flintstones movie was an undeniable perk. This dual role in The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas stands as a testament to Alan Cumming’s adventurous spirit and willingness to embrace diverse and imaginative characters throughout his acting career.
