Introduction
It’s hard to believe that Pretty Woman, the romantic comedy that has captivated audiences for over three decades, first graced movie theaters in March 1990. Directed by Garry Marshall (Overboard, Frankie and Johnny), the film not only became a box office success, but also etched itself in the hearts of movie lovers across the globe. This year, as we celebrate the thirty-fifth anniversary of the release of Pretty Woman, this is the perfect time to reflect on why this film continues to endure.
A Modern Fairytale
At its core, Pretty Woman is a modern-day Cinderella story/reimagining of My Fair Lady (Fair Lady – Pretty Woman, get it?) featuring the unlikely love affair between Edward Lewis (Richard Gere), a wealthy corporate raider, and Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts), a street-smart woman who works as a prostitute.
From the very first moments of their encounter, sparks are flying. Edward hires Vivian to accompany him for a week to help soften his image while securing his latest corporate kill. What begins as a business transaction evolves into a genuine connection, defying the boundaries of their very different worlds.
The simplicity of the premise is deceptive, as Pretty Woman goes beyond just an adult fairytale romance. Its charm lies in the characters’ personal growth and the exploration of how love can transcend societal expectations. Vivian’s journey from a woman who has learned to survive in the tough streets of Los Angeles to someone who dares to dream about a better life is both inspiring and empowering. The film challenges preconceived notions about love, class, and transformation, making it as much about self-discovery as it is about romance.
A Star-Making Role
Pretty Woman wasn’t just the story of a wealthy businessman and a hooker. Its release also marked the rise of Julia Roberts to Hollywood icon status. Her portrayal of Vivian Ward made Roberts a household name, and she quickly became one of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses. Roberts brought a unique blend of warmth, charm, and vulnerability to Vivian, making her character feel both relatable and aspirational. That famous smile of hers became a symbol of the film’s joy and optimism, cementing her place as one of the brightest stars of the ’90s.
The role earned Roberts her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, a recognition that would eventually lead to her winning the Oscar for Erin Brockovich in 2001. But Pretty Woman remains the film that introduced the world to her sparkling personality and undeniable talent. For fans of the film, it’s impossible to imagine any other actress in the role of Vivian.
Gere and Roberts
While Julia Roberts shone brightly, Richard Gere’s portrayal of Edward Lewis was just as essential to the film’s success. Gere’s suave, sophisticated performance as the high-powered businessman who is initially all business, but ultimately all heart, provided the perfect counterpart to Roberts’ fiery and lovable Vivian. The chemistry between the two leads is nothing short of magical, and it’s no surprise that Pretty Woman became one of the most iconic romantic comedies of all time.
What sets Pretty Woman apart from other films in the genre is the way it allows both characters to evolve and become better versions of themselves through their relationship. Edward, who initially sees Vivian as nothing more than an object, learns to embrace the beauty of genuine connection. Meanwhile, Vivian, who feels undeserving of love, learns to recognize her self-worth. Together, they show that love isn’t just about saving each other; it’s about growing together and finding common ground despite differences.
Script Issues
The creation of Pretty Woman was anything but smooth sailing. There were a series of surprising twists and turns that almost kept the film from becoming the cultural phenomenon it is today. Originally, it was intended to be a darker, more dramatic film. Written by J.F. Lawton, the original script was titled $3,000, and it had a much grimmer tone. In the original version, the film’s protagonist, Vivian, was more cynical. The relationship between her and Edward was less romantic, and the ending, notably more tragic with Vivian dying from a drug overdose.
However, Garry Marshall, as the director, saw the potential for a more optimistic story and requested significant changes. He brought a sense of lightness and humor to the script, transforming the film into a feel-good romantic comedy rather than a gritty drama. Marshall’s changes played a huge role in the film’s success, as audiences were drawn to the charm and warmth of the story.
Casting
Julia Roberts wasn’t the first actress considered for the role of Vivian Ward. In fact, actresses such as Molly Ringwald were considered, while even ’80s sweetheart, Meg Ryan, was the top of Disney’s list. But it wasn’t until Garry Marshall met Julia Roberts that everything clicked. Even though Roberts was relatively unknown at the time, Marshall saw her potential and cast her, trusting her ability to bring both humor and depth to the role.
Richard Gere was also hesitant to take on the role at first. Initially, he had concerns about the content and tone of the film. He was also unsure if he wanted to star in a romantic comedy. However, after a conversation with Marshall, a slipped post-it note from Roberts saying ‘Please Say Yes‘, and reading the updated script, he agreed. The decision paid off as Gere’s portrayal of the wealthy businessman slowly learning the value of true love and compassion is one of his most iconic roles.
The Shopping Scene
One of the film’s most memorable moments is the iconic shopping spree scene, where Vivian is snubbed by the upscale boutiques of Rodeo Drive, only to return later in a glamorous red dress and show the salespeople just how wrong they were. Interestingly, the scene wasn’t initially scripted to be as extravagant. The producers were working with a tight budget, and the idea of Vivian’s extravagant shopping spree was a last-minute addition.
It turns out that the sequence would become one of the film’s showstopping scenes. It’s a scene that remains one of the most beloved scenes in cinematic history. Julia Roberts’s radiant energy and infectious smile as she tries on the clothes added an extra level of charm, solidifying the shopping spree as one of the defining moments of Pretty Woman.
Legacy
More than three decades after its release, Pretty Woman remains a cultural touchstone. It’s the film that defined a generation’s idea of the perfect romantic comedy, inspiring countless others that followed. From its unforgettable soundtrack, which includes the instantly recognizable hit “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison, to its memorable scenes (the shopping spree, the opera, and the final scene with the limousine), Pretty Woman is a film that continues to be referenced and celebrated by audiences new and old.
Beyond its entertainment value, Pretty Woman also sparked conversations about social class, relationships, and empowerment. The idea of the “hooker with a heart of gold” became a trope in pop culture, and the film’s message about personal transformation and the possibility of love transcending material wealth remains a powerful one.
Today, Pretty Woman is more than just a film—it’s a phenomenon. Its impact can be seen in everything from fashion (who could forget Vivian’s glamorous red dress?) to modern interpretations of love stories in film and television. Many consider it a quintessential romantic comedy, and its influence can still be felt in contemporary romantic films.
Conclusion
As we mark the anniversary of Pretty Woman, we remember not just the love story between Edward and Vivian but the timeless lessons it teaches us about the power of kindness, self-worth, and the belief that sometimes, love really can conquer all. With its perfect blend of humor, heart, and romance, Pretty Woman will remain a cherished classic for years to come. Happy anniversary, Pretty Woman!
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