Pretty Woman (1990), directed by Garry Marshall, is a beloved romantic comedy that became a cultural phenomenon. Starring Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward and Richard Gere as Edward Lewis, the film tells the story of a chance encounter between a wealthy businessman and a street-smart sex worker that blossoms into an unconventional love story.

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Plot and Themes

The story follows Edward, a corporate raider, who hires Vivian as an escort for a week while attending business events in Los Angeles. Over time, their professional arrangement evolves into a genuine connection, with both characters confronting their own insecurities and societal judgments. The film’s themes include love transcending class divides, self-discovery, and the power of kindness and vulnerability.

Performances

Julia Roberts delivers a star-making performance as Vivian, bringing charm, humor, and emotional depth to the role. Her radiant smile and natural charisma make her transformation from streetwalker to sophisticated companion both believable and captivating. Richard Gere complements her as Edward, balancing his cold, businesslike demeanor with moments of warmth and tenderness.

Their chemistry is electric, and their dynamic elevates the film beyond its Cinderella-like premise. The supporting cast, including Hector Elizondo as the compassionate hotel manager, adds further depth to the narrative.

Direction and Writing

Garry Marshall’s direction is light-hearted yet poignant, maintaining a balance between comedy and romance. The screenplay by J.F. Lawton originally had a much darker tone but was reworked into the feel-good story audiences adore. This shift, though criticized by some for sugarcoating harsh realities, helped cement its status as a classic romantic comedy.

Cultural Impact

The film’s iconic moments, like Vivian’s shopping spree and the “Big Mistake. Big. Huge.” line, remain etched in pop culture. The soundtrack, featuring “It Must Have Been Love” by Roxette, adds to the film’s emotional resonance.

Criticism

While widely praised, the film has faced criticism for romanticizing certain aspects of its premise and glossing over the challenges of sex work. However, its fairytale charm and focus on personal growth have endeared it to audiences worldwide.

Legacy

Pretty Woman grossed over $460 million globally and solidified Julia Roberts as one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Decades later, it remains a go-to film for romantic comedy lovers and is considered a classic in the genre.

Final Verdict

Pretty Woman is an enchanting blend of humor, romance, and heart. Its leads’ chemistry and iconic scenes make it a timeless classic, despite its glossy portrayal of real-world issues.