*Pretty Woman* (1990) is a timeless romantic comedy that has captivated audiences for decades with its charm, wit, and unforgettable love story. Directed by Garry Marshall and starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, the film tells the story of a wealthy businessman who unexpectedly falls in love with a vivacious and down-to-earth woman he hires to accompany him to social events. What begins as a transactional relationship blossoms into a heartfelt romance, challenging societal norms and revealing the true power of love. With its iconic moments, memorable characters, and a soundtrack that perfectly captures the spirit of the era, *Pretty Woman* remains one of the most beloved films in cinematic history. In this blog post, we will dive into the elements that make *Pretty Woman* a must-watch, explore its cultural impact, and discuss why it continues to be a top movie on Netflix. Be sure to view the images that highlight the film’s most iconic scenes, as they bring to life the magic of this unforgettable love story.
The Cinderella Story Reimagined
At its core, *Pretty Woman* is a modern-day Cinderella story, where the unlikely romance between a wealthy prince and a commoner captures the hearts of audiences. In this case, the “prince” is Edward Lewis (played by Richard Gere), a successful and powerful businessman who is emotionally distant and preoccupied with his corporate dealings. Enter Vivian Ward (played by Julia Roberts), a free-spirited and independent woman who happens to be a Hollywood Boulevard prostitute. Their worlds collide when Edward hires Vivian to be his escort for a week, setting the stage for a transformative journey for both characters.
The film brilliantly reimagines the classic fairy tale, with Vivian’s character representing a strong, relatable, and complex woman rather than the traditional damsel in distress. While *Pretty Woman* retains the elements of fantasy and wish fulfillment inherent in fairy tales, it also grounds the story in reality, addressing issues of class, identity, and self-worth. The film’s success lies in its ability to balance the lighthearted romance with deeper themes, making it appealing to a wide audience.
Vivian’s transformation from a street-smart, no-nonsense woman to a refined lady of high society is central to the film’s narrative. However, it’s not just Vivian who undergoes a change. Edward also evolves, learning to open his heart and rediscovering the joy and spontaneity that he has long suppressed. Their relationship challenges the rigid social structures that separate them, emphasizing the idea that love knows no boundaries.
Julia Roberts’ Star-Making Performance
One of the most remarkable aspects of *Pretty Woman* is Julia Roberts’ performance, which catapulted her to stardom and solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses. Her portrayal of Vivian Ward is nothing short of iconic, blending vulnerability, strength, humor, and charm in a way that made her character instantly relatable and unforgettable. Roberts’ radiant smile, infectious energy, and undeniable chemistry with Richard Gere made *Pretty Woman* a standout film that resonated with audiences around the world.
Vivian is a character full of contradictions—tough yet tender, street-smart yet innocent, confident yet unsure of her place in the world. Roberts brings these complexities to life with a performance that is both nuanced and captivating. Her ability to shift between comedic and dramatic moments with ease adds depth to the character and makes her journey all the more compelling.
In addition to her acting prowess, Roberts’ presence in the film was a breath of fresh air, capturing the spirit of the early ’90s and setting the stage for a new era of romantic comedies. Her portrayal of Vivian also challenged traditional notions of femininity and empowerment, offering a portrayal of a woman who takes control of her destiny despite the odds stacked against her.
Richard Gere’s portrayal of Edward Lewis is equally significant, providing a perfect foil to Roberts’ vivacious Vivian. His restrained and understated performance adds depth to the character of Edward, allowing the audience to see the vulnerability beneath his polished exterior. The chemistry between Gere and Roberts is undeniable, and their on-screen dynamic is one of the key reasons why *Pretty Woman* has remained a fan favorite for so many years.
Cultural Impact and Iconic Moments
*Pretty Woman* is more than just a romantic comedy; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has left a lasting impact on pop culture. From the film’s unforgettable soundtrack, including Roy Orbison’s “Oh, Pretty Woman,” to its iconic scenes that have been referenced and parodied countless times, *Pretty Woman* has cemented its place in cinematic history.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the shopping spree on Rodeo Drive, where Vivian confidently walks into a boutique that had previously snubbed her, delivering the famous line, “Big mistake. Big. Huge!” This moment has become emblematic of the film’s theme of empowerment and serves as a satisfying moment of triumph for Vivian. The scene not only highlights Vivian’s transformation but also addresses the class divide that runs through the film.
Another iconic moment is the bathtub scene, where Vivian relaxes in a luxurious bubble bath while singing along to Prince’s “Kiss.” This scene encapsulates the blend of humor and vulnerability that defines Vivian’s character and adds a touch of levity to the film’s more serious moments.
The film’s final scene, where Edward “rescues” Vivian from her apartment in a white limousine, is a modern twist on the classic fairy tale ending. However, what makes this scene special is that it’s not just about Edward rescuing Vivian—it’s about both characters rescuing each other from their respective emotional isolation. This mutual redemption and the film’s message that love can transcend societal boundaries resonate with audiences to this day.
A Top Movie on Netflix: The Enduring Appeal of Pretty Woman
Decades after its release, *Pretty Woman* continues to captivate audiences on Netflix, where it remains one of the platform’s most-watched romantic comedies. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to several factors, including its relatable themes, memorable performances, and timeless love story. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or revisiting it as a longtime fan, *Pretty Woman* offers a feel-good experience that resonates across generations.
One of the reasons *Pretty Woman* has remained popular is its accessibility. The film’s universal themes of love, transformation, and self-worth make it a relatable and enjoyable watch for a wide audience. Its blend of romance, comedy, and drama ensures that there’s something for everyone, making it a perfect choice for a movie night.
In addition to its engaging story and characters, *Pretty Woman* benefits from its high production values, with Garry Marshall’s direction and the film’s sleek, glamorous visuals adding to its appeal. The film’s depiction of Los Angeles, with its juxtaposition of the glitzy world of high society and the gritty streets of Hollywood, adds depth to the narrative and serves as a backdrop for the characters’ journeys.
The chemistry between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere is another key factor in the film’s success. Their on-screen dynamic is electric, and their performances elevate the film from a simple romantic comedy to a beloved classic. The film’s witty dialogue, iconic moments, and heartfelt emotions ensure that it remains a fan favorite on Netflix, where new generations of viewers continue to discover and fall in love with the story of Vivian and Edward.
*Pretty Woman* (1990) is more than just a romantic comedy; it’s a cultural touchstone that has left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. With its memorable performances, iconic moments, and timeless love story, the film continues to be a top movie on Netflix, captivating viewers old and new. Julia Roberts and Richard Gere’s chemistry, combined with Garry Marshall’s direction, make *Pretty Woman* a must-watch for anyone who loves romance, humor, and a bit of fairy tale magic.
As you watch or rewatch *Pretty Woman* on Netflix, take a moment to appreciate the film’s exploration of love, transformation, and empowerment. The images that accompany this blog post capture some of the film’s most iconic scenes, bringing to life the charm and magic that have made *Pretty Woman* a beloved classic for over three decades. So sit back, relax, and let yourself be swept away by the charm of Vivian and Edward’s unforgettable love story.
