Pretty Woman (1990)

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Pretty Woman (1990) – A Timeless Romantic Comedy!

Plot Overview:
Pretty Woman (1990) is a classic romantic comedy directed by Garry Marshall that tells the heartwarming, fairy-tale-like story of Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts), a street-smart, kind-hearted prostitute, and Edward Lewis (Richard Gere), a wealthy and successful businessman. The film blends romance, humor, and charm as the two characters navigate an unexpected relationship that challenges their worlds.

Edward, a corporate raider in Los Angeles, hires Vivian for a week to be his escort while he deals with important business matters. Initially, the two come from completely different worlds—Vivian is from a rough, low-income background, while Edward is wealthy, sophisticated, and used to dealing with high society. However, as the week progresses, the unlikely couple begins to form a genuine emotional connection, testing the boundaries of their relationship.

The film centers on themes of love, personal growth, and the idea that anyone can find happiness, no matter their background. As Edward begins to see Vivian in a new light, he helps her break free from her old life, and Vivian shows Edward that wealth and success aren’t everything. The movie culminates in a romantic and iconic scene where Edward comes to “rescue” Vivian, but in a way that makes both characters realize they need each other for very different reasons.

Visuals:
The visuals of Pretty Woman are vibrant and memorable, perfectly capturing the contrasting worlds that the characters inhabit. The movie showcases the glamorous high-society world of Beverly Hills, with chic, elegant mansions, fancy restaurants, and upscale shopping. At the same time, it contrasts this with the rougher, more colorful streets where Vivian begins her journey.

Julia Roberts’ wardrobe in the film, especially her famous red dress, has become iconic, representing her transformation throughout the story. The visual tone of the movie is warm and inviting, mixing lavish romance with relatable moments that make the characters’ personal growth and blossoming relationship even more impactful.

Characters:

  • Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts): Vivian is a fun, energetic, and optimistic woman who has had a tough life but maintains her charm and sense of humor. Julia Roberts’ performance made Vivian one of the most beloved romantic comedy characters of all time. Her transformation from a woman of the streets to someone capable of true love and self-respect is central to the film’s heartwarming narrative.

  • Edward Lewis (Richard Gere): Edward is a self-made millionaire who, at first, is all about business and keeping emotions at arm’s length. He hires Vivian for her services but begins to see her in a new light as they spend more time together. Richard Gere plays Edward with a perfect mix of charisma and emotional vulnerability, especially as his connection with Vivian deepens.

  • Kit De Luca (Laura San Giacomo): Kit is Vivian’s best friend and fellow prostitute, providing comic relief and some emotional depth to Vivian’s journey. Kit’s loyalty and friendship to Vivian bring warmth to the story, and her character offers a counterpoint to the more serious aspects of Vivian’s transformation.

  • Stuckey (Alex Hyde-White): The sleazy businessman who hires Vivian for an unpleasant deal, Stuckey represents the darker side of the world Vivian inhabits, but he also serves as the catalyst for Vivian’s decision to break free from her current life.

  • Barney (Héctor Elizondo): The hotel manager who becomes a supportive figure for Vivian, Barney treats her with kindness and respect. His character serves as a mentor of sorts and adds to the film’s theme of empathy and kindness overcoming superficial judgments.

    Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in a scene from the film ‘Pretty Woman’, 1990. (Photo by Buena Vista/Getty Images)

Themes:
Pretty Woman explores several timeless themes, including love and transformation, showing how two people from vastly different worlds can fall for each other despite their differences. It also delves into themes of self-worth, as Vivian learns to respect herself and demand more than just money from her relationships.

The idea of personal growth is central to both characters, especially Vivian, who goes from being a streetwalker with low self-esteem to realizing that she deserves to be treated with love, respect, and dignity. Edward, in turn, learns that life is about more than wealth and business; it’s about connection, authenticity, and the ability to open up emotionally.

The film also touches on social class, with Vivian’s initial position in life representing the rougher, working-class world, and Edward embodying the elite, successful business class. Their story is one of bridging this gap, both socially and emotionally, and challenging preconceived notions of worth and identity.

Overall:
Pretty Woman is a feel-good romantic comedy that has stood the test of time. With unforgettable performances from Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, a delightful mix of romance and humor, and a story that centers on personal growth and the transformative power of love, the film has become one of the most iconic romantic comedies in cinema history.

Its blend of escapism, heart, and humor resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a perfect example of the genre. The film’s legendary lines, characters, and moments have ensured it remains a classic that audiences continue to revisit.