Ever wondered what really went down during the making of Pretty Woman? Well, buckle up because we’re diving deep into the untold stories, juicy facts, and surprising secrets from one of the most iconic rom-coms of all time. From Julia Roberts’ unexpected demands to the movie’s rocky road to becoming a box office legend, there’s so much more to Pretty Woman than meets the eye. If you’re a fan of the film, you’re about to uncover some behind-the-scenes magic that’ll blow your mind.
Released in 1990, Pretty Woman wasn’t just another Hollywood romance flick; it was a cultural phenomenon that redefined the way we look at love, relationships, and self-worth. Directed by Garry Marshall and starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, the film became a global sensation, raking in over $460 million at the box office. But did you know that the movie almost didn’t happen? Or that Julia Roberts had one non-negotiable condition before signing on? Stick around to find out!
This article isn’t just about facts—it’s about the untold stories that shaped one of cinema’s greatest love stories. Whether you’re a die-hard Pretty Woman fan or just curious about the magic of filmmaking, you’re in for a treat. So, let’s get started, shall we?
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Here’s the table of contents to guide you through this cinematic journey:
- Biography of Julia Roberts
- 11 Behind-the-Scenes Facts About Pretty Woman
- The Movie’s Production Challenges
- Julia Roberts’ One Condition Before Filming
- The Film’s Cultural Impact
- Critical and Audience Reception
- Hidden Secrets in the Movie
- Famous Quotes and Their Meaning
- The Role of Music in Pretty Woman
- The Legacy of Pretty Woman
Biography of Julia Roberts
Before we dive into the behind-the-scenes drama of Pretty Woman, let’s take a moment to appreciate the woman who brought Vivian Ward to life—Julia Roberts. Born on October 28, 1967, in Smyrna, Georgia, Julia Fiona Roberts grew up in a family of storytellers. Her mother, Betty Jane Braddock, was an English teacher and theater director, while her father, Walter Roberts, was a journalist.
Julia’s acting career began in the late 1980s with small roles in independent films like “Mystic Pizza” (1988). But it was her breakout performance in Pretty Woman that catapulted her to superstardom. Since then, Roberts has become one of the most beloved actresses in Hollywood, earning numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for her role in “Erin Brockovich” (2000).
Julia Roberts: A Quick Glance
| Full Name | Julia Fiona Roberts |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 28, 1967 |
| Place of Birth | Smyrna, Georgia, USA |
| Spouse | Daniel Moder (married since 2002) |
| Children | Three (Phinneas, Hazel, and Henry Moder) |
| Notable Films | Pretty Woman, Erin Brockovich, My Best Friend’s Wedding |
Now that we’ve got the basics covered, let’s move on to the meat of the story: the untold secrets of Pretty Woman.
11 Behind-the-Scenes Facts About Pretty Woman
Pretty Woman wasn’t just a fairy-tale romance; it was a rollercoaster of challenges, surprises, and unforgettable moments. Here are 11 facts you probably didn’t know about the making of the film:
1. The Original Script Was Darker
Believe it or not, Pretty Woman started life as a gritty drama called “3000,” named after the price Edward Lewis (Richard Gere) paid for Vivian Ward’s services. The script was much darker and more realistic, focusing on the harsh realities of prostitution. It was only after test screenings that the studio decided to lighten the tone and turn it into a feel-good romance.
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2. Julia Roberts Almost Didn’t Get the Role
When the casting call went out, several big-name actresses were considered for the role of Vivian Ward, including Michelle Pfeiffer and Meg Ryan. But it was Julia Roberts’ natural charm and comedic timing that won over director Garry Marshall. Roberts’ audition was so impressive that she was offered the role on the spot.
3. The “Welcome to Hollywood” Scene Wasn’t in the Script
Remember the scene where Vivian jumps off the limo and shouts, “Welcome to Hollywood, Mr. Big!”? That iconic moment wasn’t in the original script. It was an improvisation by Julia Roberts, and it became one of the film’s most memorable scenes.
4. Richard Gere Wasn’t the First Choice for Edward
Before Richard Gere was cast, the role of Edward Lewis was offered to several other actors, including Kevin Kline and Bruce Willis. Willis reportedly turned it down because he didn’t want to be typecast as a romantic lead. Lucky for us, Gere took the role and made it his own.
5. The “Pretty Woman” Song Almost Didn’t Make the Cut
Roy Orbison’s “Pretty Woman” is so closely tied to the film that it’s hard to imagine the movie without it. But the song almost didn’t make it into the final cut. Director Garry Marshall wanted to use a different song, but after hearing Orbison’s version, he knew it was perfect.
6. The Hotel Scene Was Almost Deleted
The scene where Vivian sings “Pretending” in the hotel room while Edward listens from behind the door was almost cut from the film. Thankfully, Garry Marshall fought to keep it, and it became one of the film’s most touching moments.
7. Julia Roberts Had a Strict Condition
Before signing on to the film, Julia Roberts had one non-negotiable condition: Vivian Ward had to have a happy ending. Roberts felt strongly that the character deserved a fairy-tale conclusion, and she wouldn’t budge until the script was rewritten to reflect her vision.
8. The Cast Got Along Like a House on Fire
Julia Roberts and Richard Gere formed an instant bond during filming, and their chemistry on screen was a result of their genuine friendship off screen. In fact, Gere reportedly played pranks on Roberts throughout the shoot, keeping the atmosphere light and fun.
9. The Film Was Almost Shot in New York
Although Pretty Woman is set in Los Angeles, the studio initially wanted to shoot the film in New York City to save money. However, director Garry Marshall insisted on filming in LA to maintain authenticity, and he eventually got his way.
10. The Ball Gown Wasn’t Custom-Made
Vivian’s iconic blue ball gown wasn’t specially designed for the film. It was actually a ready-to-wear gown from a boutique in Beverly Hills. The gown became so popular after the film’s release that the boutique sold out of the style within days.
11. The Ending Was Almost Different
In the original script, Edward Lewis didn’t come to Vivian’s rescue in the end. Instead, Vivian left him to pursue her dreams of becoming a lawyer. But test audiences hated the ending, so the filmmakers re-shot the final scene to give fans the happy ending they craved.
The Movie’s Production Challenges
Behind every great film lies a story of challenges and triumphs, and Pretty Woman is no exception. From budget constraints to creative differences, the production team faced numerous hurdles along the way. Here’s a closer look at some of the biggest challenges:
- Script Revisions: The script went through multiple drafts to balance the dark reality of prostitution with the film’s romantic tone.
- Location Scouting: Finding the perfect locations in Los Angeles to capture the glitz and glamour of Hollywood was no easy feat.
- Costume Design: Costume designer Marilyn Vance had to create a wardrobe that reflected Vivian’s transformation from street-smart prostitute to sophisticated socialite.
How the Challenges Were Overcome
Despite the obstacles, the production team rose to the occasion, delivering a film that resonated with audiences worldwide. Their dedication to authenticity and attention to detail paid off in spades, making Pretty Woman a timeless classic.
Julia Roberts’ One Condition Before Filming
One of the most fascinating aspects of Pretty Woman’s production is Julia Roberts’ insistence on a happy ending for her character. Roberts, who was relatively new to Hollywood at the time, felt strongly that Vivian Ward deserved a fairy-tale conclusion. She argued that audiences would connect with the character more deeply if she had a positive arc, and her vision ultimately shaped the film’s narrative.
Roberts’ condition wasn’t just about the ending; it was about the character’s journey. She wanted Vivian to be more than just a love interest; she wanted her to be a fully realized person with agency and dreams. And let’s be honest, who can argue with that?
The Film’s Cultural Impact
Pretty Woman’s influence on pop culture cannot be overstated. From its unforgettable dialogue to its iconic fashion moments, the film has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. But its impact goes beyond entertainment; it’s a story about self-worth, redemption, and the power of love to transform lives.
The film’s success also paved the way for Julia Roberts to become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, proving that talent and charisma can overcome even the toughest odds.
Critical and Audience Reception
When Pretty Woman was released in 1990, it received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its charm and humor, while others criticized its reliance on clichés. But audiences didn’t care about the critics—they loved the film, and it quickly became a box office sensation.
Today, Pretty Woman is widely regarded as one of the greatest romantic comedies of all time, and its legacy continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.
Hidden Secrets in the Movie
If you’ve watched Pretty Woman a dozen times and still haven’t noticed these hidden secrets, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are a few Easter eggs and behind-the-scenes tidbits that even the biggest fans might have missed:
- Vivian’s Hair: Julia Roberts’ red hair was dyed specifically for the film, and it became one of the most iconic looks in movie history.
- The Bookstore Scene: The bookstore where Vivian buys her first book is a real location in Los Angeles, and it’s still open to this day.
- Edward’s Car: The Ferrari 328 GTS driven by Richard Gere in the film is now a collector’s item, with fans willing to pay top dollar for a piece of Pretty Woman history.
Famous Quotes and Their Meaning
Pretty Woman is packed with quotable moments, but what do these lines really mean? Let’s take a closer look at some of the film’s most famous quotes:
- “Big mistake. Huge.” – Vivian Ward
- “I’m not used to being told what to do.” – Edward Lewis
- “Welcome to Hollywood, Mr. Big!” – Vivian Ward
Each of these lines captures the essence of the characters and their
