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Pretty Woman, the 1990 romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, has captivated audiences for decades with its modern Cinderella story. While many are familiar with its iconic scenes and memorable lines, there are numerous lesser-known facts about the film that contribute to its enduring charm. Here are ten intriguing insights into the making of Pretty Woman:
A Darker Original Script
The initial screenplay for Pretty Woman, titled “$3,000,” was a much grittier tale. It depicted Vivian as a drug-addicted prostitute, and the story delved into the harsh realities of life on the streets. The original ending was far from the fairy-tale conclusion we know today; Edward was scripted to abandon Vivian, throwing her and the money out of his car. Additionally, Vivian’s friend, Kit, was intended to suffer a fatal overdose. Disney’s acquisition of the script led to significant rewrites, transforming it into the beloved romantic comedy.
Casting Challenges for Edward and Vivian
Before Richard Gere and Julia Roberts were cast, several prominent actors were considered for the lead roles. For Edward, names like Christopher Reeve, Al Pacino, Burt Reynolds, and John Travolta were in contention. Meanwhile, the role of Vivian saw auditions from a long list of Hollywood’s top actresses, including Drew Barrymore, Demi Moore, and Winona Ryder. However, some of them were deemed too young for the part. Ultimately, the undeniable chemistry between Gere and Roberts sealed their casting, bringing to life one of the most iconic romantic pairings in film history.
Richard Gere’s Musical Contribution
In a memorable scene, Edward plays the piano in a hotel lounge. Remarkably, Richard Gere not only performed the piece himself but also composed it. This authentic touch added depth to his character’s portrayal.
The Iconic Necklace and Its Guardian
The elegant necklace Edward presents to Vivian was a genuine piece valued at $250,000. Due to its worth, an armed security guard was present on set whenever the necklace was used, ensuring its safety during filming.
Improvised Jewellery Box Scene
One of the film’s most cherished moments occurs when Edward playfully snaps the jewellery box shut as Vivian reaches for the necklace. This unscripted action elicited a genuine, hearty laugh from Julia Roberts, capturing a spontaneous and endearing interaction between the characters.
A Street-Sourced Red Jacket
Vivian’s distinctive red jacket, worn during her initial encounter with Edward, was an impromptu addition. The film’s costume designers spotted the jacket on a passer-by while scouting Hollywood Boulevard and purchased it directly from the individual, integrating it seamlessly into Vivian’s wardrobe.
Julia Roberts’ Hair Dye Incident
During the filming of the bathtub scene, the water contained a strong detergent to maintain the bubbles. After multiple takes, this solution stripped the dye from Julia Roberts’ hair, necessitating an emergency late-night colouring session to restore her iconic red locks for subsequent scenes.
The Opera’s Reflective Narrative
In the film, Edward and Vivian attend a performance of “La Traviata,” an opera about a courtesan who falls in love with a wealthy man. This choice mirrors the central plot of “Pretty Woman,” subtly reinforcing the film’s themes through this artful parallel.
Richard and Julia’s Age Gap Raised Eyebrows
At the time of filming Pretty Woman, Richard Gere was 40 years old, while Julia Roberts was just 21, a nearly 20-year age gap that raised some eyebrows. Critics and industry insiders questioned whether the pairing would feel believable on screen, especially with Roberts’ youthful energy contrasting Gere’s more mature and composed demeanour. However, their undeniable chemistry silenced sceptics, turning their romance into one of the most beloved on-screen love stories in Hollywood history.
The Film’s Enduring Legacy
Pretty Woman not only became the highest-grossing romantic comedy of its time but also solidified Julia Roberts’ status as a leading actress in Hollywood. Its blend of humour, romance, and fairy-tale elements continues to resonate with audiences, maintaining its place as a beloved classic in cinematic history.
These behind-the-scenes insights offer a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and serendipitous moments that contributed to the magic of Pretty Woman. The film’s transformation from a dark drama to a heart-warming romantic comedy, coupled with the dedication of its cast and crew, underscores its lasting impact on popular culture.
