Released in 1990, Pretty Woman didn’t just launch Julia Roberts and Richard Gere into superstardom — it became a defining romantic comedy of the era. But behind the polished smiles and Hollywood glamour lies a fascinating story of transformations, bloopers, and casting twists that shaped the classic we all know and love.
Originally titled 3,000 — a reference to the amount Vivian (Julia Roberts) earned for her week with Edward (Richard Gere) — the script was a far grittier drama. Screenwriter J.F. Lawton explored class struggles, corporate greed, and the harsh realities of exploitation. The story wasn’t meant to be a fairy tale. But when Disney took over, the tone shifted. The darker elements were replaced with optimism, and a modern Cinderella story was born, complete with the now-iconic rooftop rescue and romantic fire-escape kiss.
Richard Gere wasn’t the first choice for Edward Lewis. Al Pacino even auditioned with Julia Roberts during early readings. Pacino later admitted Roberts’ magnetism was undeniable: “You could tell it was going to be big. That girl had something special — just light.” Ultimately, Gere was cast, cementing the smooth, controlled Edward we remember today.
Even the most polished films have their quirks. One famous continuity error occurs during the breakfast scene: Vivian’s croissant magically becomes a pancake between shots. Director Garry Marshall later admitted he favored Julia’s performance over continuity — charm mattered more than pastry accuracy. Other fun details include Edward’s disappearing shoes in the park, shifting colored condoms, and a $100 bill that vanishes from Vivian’s boot — subtle imperfections that add to the film’s enduring magic.
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