Pretty Woman became one of the most iconic romantic comedies, launching the careers of Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. However, the film’s origin story is quite different from what we see today. Initially, the screenplay was called 3,000 and was written by the then-struggling screenwriter J.F. Lawton. It had darker themes, exploring societal disparities and corporate greed. But when Disney got involved, things took a dramatic turn. The company preferred a lighter approach, shifting the story from one about sex work and class issues to a romantic comedy. With a larger budget and a new direction, Pretty Woman became the beloved film we know today.
Al Pacino’s Missed Opportunity
When it comes to the character of Edward Lewis, it’s nearly impossible to imagine anyone other than Richard Gere in the role. Yet, before Gere was cast, Al Pacino was originally considered for the part. Pacino even participated in a casting reading with Julia Roberts, but ultimately turned the role down. Although he liked the script, Pacino never revealed the reasons for passing on the part. In retrospect, Pacino expressed admiration for Roberts, acknowledging her remarkable talent at the time. His instincts were spot on, as Roberts’ performance became a defining moment in both her career and the film’s success.
Small But Memorable Mistakes
Pretty Woman has its share of small continuity errors that even the most avid fans may overlook. One of the most amusing bloopers occurs during a breakfast scene where Vivian (Julia Roberts) is eating a croissant while talking to Edward (Richard Gere). However, in the very next shot, the croissant suddenly transforms into a pancake. According to director Garry Marshall, the switch happened because he preferred Roberts’ performance with the pancake, though it created a noticeable continuity issue. The pancake also mysteriously changes the number of bites taken, which further highlights the error.
Another noteworthy mistake lies in the famous red dress that Roberts wears to the opera. While the dress is a central symbol of Vivian’s transformation, some details about the costumes in the film are often overlooked. The dress, designed by Marilyn Vance, was one of six iconic outfits created for Roberts’ character. Vance also crafted several of Richard Gere’s stylish outfits, including a seemingly ordinary tie that plays a notable role in the film’s wardrobe. Despite being a $48 tie from a local store, it makes several appearances in the movie, and viewers can spot the knot changing unexpectedly from time to time, adding another amusing mistake to the list.
Iconic Scenes and Unexpected Pranks
There are a few key moments in Pretty Woman that continue to stand out for their unforgettable imagery and emotion. One such moment involves the ruby-and-diamond necklace, worth a staggering quarter million dollars, that Richard Gere presents to Julia Roberts’ character. This extravagant necklace was real, and an armed security guard was present on set to keep it safe. However, the scene where the jewelry box snaps shut on Roberts’ fingers was originally intended as a joke for the film’s gag reel. Director Garry Marshall explained that, at the time, Roberts had shown up to set a little tired from late nights, so he and Richard Gere decided to prank her by having the box close unexpectedly. The spontaneous moment turned into one of the most memorable and genuine laughs in cinematic history.
The Real Chemistry Between Roberts and Gere
The undeniable chemistry between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere is a key factor in the film’s enduring success. What many may not know is that their connection went beyond the camera. In interviews, both actors have shared how they bonded off-screen. In fact, in 2017, Richard Gere admitted that he and Roberts would speak “three or four times a day” during the filming of Pretty Woman. This strong bond was evident to director Garry Marshall, who recalled a moment when he stepped out of the room and saw the two actors looking at each other, recognizing that they had something special even before the cameras began rolling. Despite some reservations from Gere about the script, their friendship and chemistry helped create the perfect on-screen romance.
This connection played a crucial role in getting Gere to take the role in the first place. Julia Roberts, determined to work with him, convinced Gere to take the part. She practically pleaded with him, ensuring him that if the film didn’t work out, it would be a missed opportunity for both of them. Gere was initially unsure, but Roberts’ persistence and genuine enthusiasm for the project eventually led him to sign on, solidifying their partnership as one of Hollywood’s most iconic pairings.
Even with its minor errors and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, Pretty Woman remains a classic. The chemistry between Roberts and Gere, combined with the film’s memorable moments, continues to captivate audiences, ensuring its place in cinematic history.
