11 Behind-the-Scenes Facts You Didn't Know About Pretty Woman
Hey there, movie lovers! Let me tell ya somethin’, Pretty Woman is one of those timeless classics that continues to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide. Released way back in 1990, this film has become a cultural phenomenon. But did you know there’s a whole lot more to it than just the on-screen romance? Stick around because I’m about to drop some juicy behind-the-scenes facts that’ll make you appreciate this flick even more!
This article dives deep into the world of Pretty Woman, uncovering hidden gems and untold stories from the set. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just casually curious, you're in for a treat. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s get started!
From the iconic red dress to the unforgettable "Hello, I’m Edward" scene, Pretty Woman has left an indelible mark on cinema history. But what goes on behind the cameras? Let’s find out!
Table of Contents
Fact #1: The Original Ending Was Way Different
Fact #2: Julia Roberts Wasn’t the First Choice
Fact #3: Richard Gere’s Improvisation Game
Fact #4: That Red Dress Wasn’t in the Script
Fact #5: The Film’s Title Almost Changed
Fact #6: The Director’s Brilliant Decision
Fact #7: The "Giant Sucking Sound" Scene
Fact #8: The Real-Life Inspiration
Fact #10: Julia Roberts’ Acting Process
Fact #11: The Film’s Cultural Impact
Biography of Key Players
Before we dive into the behind-the-scenes facts, let’s take a moment to appreciate the people who made Pretty Woman the masterpiece it is today.
| Name | Role | Birth Date | Fun Fact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Julia Roberts | Vivian Ward | October 28, 1967 | She initially turned down the role due to its risqué nature. |
| Richard Gere | Edward Lewis | August 31, 1949 | He improvised some of the film’s most iconic lines. |
| Garry Marshall | Director | November 13, 1934 | He insisted on casting Julia Roberts despite studio objections. |
Fact #1: The Original Ending Was Way Different
Pretty Woman might have ended with Edward whisking Vivian off to a life of luxury, but that wasn’t always the plan. In the original script, the film was supposed to have a much darker, more realistic ending. Vivian and Edward would part ways, with Vivian returning to her life as a sex worker. However, director Garry Marshall felt that audiences wanted a happily-ever-after, and boy, was he right!
Why the Change?
According to Marshall, test screenings revealed that audiences didn’t want to see Vivian and Edward split up. They wanted a fairy-tale conclusion, and so the ending was rewritten to give us the iconic scene where Edward arrives in a stretch Hummer to sweep Vivian off her feet. It’s moments like this that make Pretty Woman such a beloved classic.
Fact #2: Julia Roberts Wasn’t the First Choice
Believe it or not, Julia Roberts wasn’t the first actress considered for the role of Vivian Ward. Michelle Pfeiffer and Molly Ringwald were both in talks for the part, but scheduling conflicts and other factors meant they couldn’t take on the role. Enter Julia Roberts, who brought a fresh, vibrant energy to the character that made her unforgettable.
Here’s a fun fact: Roberts initially turned down the role because she thought the script was too risqué. Thankfully, she reconsidered, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Fact #3: Richard Gere’s Improvisation Game
Richard Gere is known for his incredible acting chops, but did you know he’s also a master improviser? Some of the film’s most memorable lines were actually ad-libbed by Gere during filming. For instance, the famous line "You think you’re gonna get me to eat quiche?" was completely off-script.
Gere’s improvisation added a layer of authenticity to his character, making Edward Lewis feel more real and relatable. It’s moments like these that elevate a film from good to great.
Fact #4: That Red Dress Wasn’t in the Script
That iconic red dress worn by Julia Roberts in the film’s final scenes? It wasn’t in the original script. Costume designer Marilyn Vance decided to add the dress at the last minute, and it became one of the most memorable fashion moments in cinematic history.
The dress was so popular that it sparked a trend, with countless women rushing to stores to find their own version of Vivian’s signature look. It’s a testament to the power of film to influence fashion and culture.
Fact #5: The Film’s Title Almost Changed
Can you imagine Pretty Woman being called something else? Well, it almost happened. The film was originally titled “3000,” a reference to the amount of money Edward pays Vivian for her services. Luckily, someone realized that wasn’t exactly catchy, and the title was changed to Pretty Woman, inspired by the Roy Orbison song of the same name.
This change helped the film resonate with a wider audience and added a layer of romance to the story that the original title lacked.
Fact #6: The Director’s Brilliant Decision
Garry Marshall faced a lot of resistance from the studio when it came to casting Julia Roberts. Many executives thought she wasn’t “big enough” for the role, but Marshall stood his ground. His instincts paid off, as Roberts’ performance became one of the highlights of the film.
Marshall’s decision to cast Roberts over more established actresses proved to be a game-changer. It helped launch Roberts’ career and cemented her status as one of Hollywood’s leading ladies.
Fact #7: The "Giant Sucking Sound" Scene
Remember the scene where Edward talks about the “giant sucking sound” during his business meeting? That line was inspired by real-life events. Gere borrowed the phrase from Ross Perot, who used it during his 1992 presidential campaign to describe the sound of jobs leaving the U.S.
This clever nod to current events added depth to Edward’s character, showing that he’s not just a wealthy businessman but someone who’s in touch with the world around him.
Fact #8: The Real-Life Inspiration
Believe it or not, Pretty Woman was inspired by a real-life story. The film’s screenwriter, J.F. Lawton, based the story on his own experiences as a young man in New York City. He once encountered a sex worker who reminded him of Vivian, and the character was born from that encounter.
This real-life inspiration adds an authenticity to the film that resonates with audiences, making the story feel more grounded and relatable.
Fact #9: The Budget Was Tight
Despite its blockbuster status, Pretty Woman was made on a relatively modest budget. The production team had to get creative with their resources, often relying on practical effects and clever camera work to create the film’s iconic look.
This budget constraint actually worked in the film’s favor, as it forced the filmmakers to focus on storytelling and character development rather than flashy special effects.
Fact #10: Julia Roberts’ Acting Process
Julia Roberts is known for her ability to fully immerse herself in her roles, and Vivian Ward was no exception. Roberts spent time researching the world of sex work, ensuring that her portrayal of Vivian was both authentic and respectful.
Her dedication to the role paid off, as she delivered a performance that was both heartfelt and believable. It’s this level of commitment that makes Roberts such a beloved actress.
Fact #11: The Film’s Cultural Impact
Pretty Woman’s influence extends far beyond the silver screen. The film has inspired countless parodies, tributes, and even real-life romance stories. Its themes of love, redemption, and self-discovery continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.
From fashion trends to relationship dynamics, Pretty Woman has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It’s a testament to the film’s enduring legacy and its ability to touch the hearts of viewers worldwide.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! These behind-the-scenes facts about Pretty Woman offer a fascinating glimpse into the making of a cinematic masterpiece. Whether it’s Richard Gere’s improvisation skills or Julia Roberts’ dedication to her craft, there’s so much to appreciate about this film.
Pretty Woman isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences around the globe. So next time you watch it, take a moment to appreciate all the hard work and creativity that went into making it the classic it is today.
And hey, don’t forget to share this article with your friends and leave a comment below. Let’s keep the conversation going and celebrate the magic of Pretty Woman together!
