Pretty Woman

Pretty Woman is a classic American romantic comedy film directed by Garry Marshall and written by J.F. Lawton. The film stars Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward, a charming and charismatic prostitute who captures the heart of a wealthy businessman, Edward Lewis, played by Richard Gere. The movie was produced by Arnon Milchan and Steven Reuther, and features a talented cast, including Ralph Bellamy and Jason Alexander. The film's success can be attributed to the chemistry between the lead actors, as well as the direction of Garry Marshall, who is known for his work on films like Runaway Bride and The Princess Diaries.

Plot

The film tells the story of Vivian Ward, a beautiful and charming prostitute who lives in Hollywood, California. One night, she meets Edward Lewis, a wealthy and successful businessman from New York City, who hires her for the night. However, their encounter turns into a week-long relationship, during which Vivian Ward transforms from a prostitute to a refined and elegant woman, with the help of the hotel staff, including the Savoy Hotel's manager, Bernard Thompson. As they spend more time together, Edward Lewis and Vivian Ward develop strong feelings for each other, despite their different backgrounds and social classes. The film features iconic scenes, such as the Opera House scene, where Vivian Ward attends a performance of La Traviata at the Los Angeles Opera, and the Rodeo Drive scene, where she goes on a shopping spree at high-end stores like Neiman Marcus and Beverly Hills.

Production

The film was produced by Touchstone Pictures and Silver Screen Partners IV, and was shot on location in Los Angeles, California, and New York City. The production team included Charles Minsky as the cinematographer, and Raja Gosnell and Stephen A. Rotter as the editors. The film's score was composed by James Newton Howard, who is known for his work on films like The Sixth Sense and Unbreakable. The production design was handled by Albert Brenner, who created the iconic sets, including the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel and the Savoy Hotel. The film's costume design was handled by Marilyn Vance, who created the stunning outfits worn by Julia Roberts throughout the film.

Cast

The film features a talented cast, including Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward, Richard Gere as Edward Lewis, Ralph Bellamy as James Morse, and Jason Alexander as Philip Stuckey. The cast also includes Hector Elizondo as the Savoy Hotel's manager, Bernard Thompson, and Laura San Giacomo as Kit De Luca, Vivian Ward's friend and fellow prostitute. The film's cast delivers strong performances, with Julia Roberts and Richard Gere standing out as the lead actors. The chemistry between the lead actors is undeniable, and their performances were praised by critics, including Roger Ebert and Gene Siskel.

Release

The film was released on March 23, 1990, and was a major commercial success, grossing over $463 million worldwide. The film was released by Touchstone Pictures and was distributed by Buena Vista Pictures Distribution. The film's success can be attributed to the strong marketing campaign, which included trailers and television spots featuring the film's iconic scenes. The film's release was also accompanied by a soundtrack, which featured the hit single Oh, Pretty Woman by Roy Orbison. The film's success led to a wide release, with the film playing in theaters across the United States, including New York City's Radio City Music Hall and Los Angeles' Grauman's Chinese Theatre.

Reception

The film received positive reviews from critics, with many praising the chemistry between the lead actors and the film's direction. The film holds a 62% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics praising the film's romantic comedy elements and the performances of the cast. The film was also a commercial success, grossing over $463 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 1990. The film's success led to Julia Roberts becoming a household name, and she went on to star in films like Erin Brockovich and Notting Hill. The film's success also led to Richard Gere becoming a leading man in Hollywood, and he went on to star in films like An Officer and a Gentleman and Shall We Dance.

Impact

The film's impact on popular culture is undeniable, with the film's iconic scenes and quotes becoming a part of the cultural zeitgeist. The film's influence can be seen in films like My Best Friend's Wedding and 10 Things I Hate About You, which feature similar romantic comedy elements. The film's success also led to a resurgence in the popularity of romantic comedies, with films like Sleepless in Seattle and You've Got Mail becoming major hits. The film's impact can also be seen in the fashion world, with the film's costume design influencing the fashion trends of the 1990s. The film's influence can also be seen in the music world, with the film's soundtrack featuring the hit single Oh, Pretty Woman by Roy Orbison, which became a classic of the rock music genre. The film's impact is still felt today, with the film remaining a beloved classic among audiences and critics alike, and its influence can be seen in films and television shows like The Devil Wears Prada and Gossip Girl. Category:American films