*Pretty Woman*, released on March 23, 1990, may have cemented its place as a beloved romantic comedy, but behind the scenes lies a treasure trove of secrets that continue to resonate with audiences decades later. Directed by Garry Marshall and featuring standout performances from Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, this film not only became a box office hit—grossing over $460 million worldwide on a budget of $17 million—but also transformed the landscape of romantic comedies.
The Original Vision
Originally titled $3,000, the film's first draft painted a far grittier and less romantic picture. The ending was notably darker, featuring a drug-addicted Vivian (played by Roberts) and her friend Kit, embarking on a bus to Disneyland after being kicked out of a limousine by Edward. In stark contrast, the final version wrapped the story in a feel-good, fairy-tale ending that would define the genre.
Acting Aspirations
Before Julia Roberts was cast, many actresses were eyeing the role of Vivian. Diane Lane, who famously had to decline due to scheduling conflicts, remarked that the part was highly coveted. Other notable actresses considered included Daryl Hannah, Winona Ryder, and Meg Ryan, whom the studio initially preferred but ultimately lost out to Roberts. Interestingly, the casting of Richard Gere also faced hurdles, as he initially turned down the role multiple times before being persuaded by Roberts, who famously wrote a note saying “Please say yes” to nudge him in the right direction.
Behind the Scenes
The film features various interesting anecdotes from its production. For instance, the iconic movie poster showcasing Roberts is not entirely representative of her body; it features a body double, Shelley Michelle, while Roberts’ head was superimposed for the final design. There are also tales of significant challenges during filming, particularly during the bubble bath scene, which resulted in a dramatic change to Roberts’ hair color due to the hair dye washing out entirely from prolonged exposure to detergent.
Filming was fraught with tensions too—Roberts was so nervous about her first on-screen intimate scene that she broke out in hives. To get a genuine laugh from her for one scene, director Marshall resorted to tickling her feet off-camera, showcasing the lengths to which the crew would go to achieve the desired performance.
Costume Choices
The film's costume designer, Marilyn Vance, played an integral role in defining Vivian's iconic looks, including the unforgettable polka dot dress and the luxurious red gown worn to the opera. Initially, a black gown was considered for the opera scene, but Vance successfully advocated for the vibrant red, transforming a simple idea into a stunning visual centerpiece. Each of Robert's outfits was crafted with particular attention, including the famous, yet exorbitantly priced, ruby and diamond necklace that cost $250,000 and required a security team on set to ensure its safety.
Cameos and Classic Moments
*Pretty Woman* is seasoned with memorable moments, one of which includes a playful interaction where Gere accidentally snaps a jewelry box shut during a scene, eliciting a genuine reaction from Roberts that was later included in the final cut. The film's approach to capturing spontaneous, authentic moments contributed significantly to its charm and resonance with audiences.
The Legacy and Future
Despite its overwhelming success, neither the director nor the stars showed interest in a sequel, making a pact during production. Their focus remained on preserving the integrity and uniqueness of the original film. However, they did reunite for the romantic comedy Runaway Bride in 1999, reigniting the chemistry that captivated audiences years earlier.
For contemporary viewers, *Pretty Woman* endures as a significant entry in cinematic history, marked by its blend of humor, romance, and cultural commentary. Its influence ripples through modern romantic comedies, emphasizing the genre's ability to evolve while remaining rooted in the themes of love and redemption. As new adaptations and interpretations arise, including the Broadway musical that debuted in 2018, the film's legacy continues to thrive.
Ultimately, *Pretty Woman* has become an essential cinematic experience, underscoring how a film can transcend its script to become a cultural staple. In uncovering these secrets, we gain insight into the creative processes that shaped one of the most cherished films in Hollywood history.