Unveiling the Fascinating Facts Behind the Timeless RomCom: “Pretty Woman”
“Pretty Woman”, the iconic Romantic Comedy that graced the silver screen over three decades ago, continues to captivate audiences with its charm and allure. Behind the scenes, the journey of bringing this beloved film to life was filled with intriguing twists and turns. From near Disney tragedy to casting what-ifs, here are some mind-blowing facts that shed light on the making of “Pretty Woman”.
1. From Tragedy to Fairy Tale: The original ending of “Pretty Woman” took a much darker turn, with Vivian tragically dying from a drug overdose. However, thanks to the then-studio head of Disney, the film underwent a significant rewrite, transforming it into the feel-good romantic fairy tale we know today.
2. The Evolution of Titles: Before settling on the title “Pretty Woman,” the film was initially named “3000,” a reference to the amount of money Vivian charges for her services. The eventual title perfectly encapsulated the essence of the film.
3. Molly Ringwald’s Pass: The role of Vivian was originally offered to Molly Ringwald, but she declined the opportunity. Ringwald’s decision opened the door for Julia Roberts to shine in one of her most iconic roles to date.
4. Inspired Screenplay: Screenwriter J.F. Lawton drew inspiration from his own experiences as a struggling screenwriter in Hollywood to craft the screenplay for “Pretty Woman”. The original script was notably darker before undergoing revisions.
5. Casting Choices: Several prominent actors were considered for the role of Edward Lewis, including Daniel Day-Lewis, Kevin Kline, and Denzel Washington. John Travolta and Christopher Reeve also expressed interest in the role, showcasing the widespread appeal of the project.
6. Box Office Triumph: “Pretty Woman” became a box office sensation, grossing over $463 million worldwide and solidifying its place as one of the highest-grossing romantic comedies of all time. Its success resonated even amid competition from other notable releases of the era.
7. Directorial Talent: Gary Marshall, known for his work on popular TV shows like Happy Days and Mork & Mindy, helmed “Pretty Woman”, bringing his signature touch to the film’s direction.
8. Award Recognition: The film received numerous award nominations, including Julia Roberts’ nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the Golden Globes. “Pretty Woman” also earned a nomination for Best Motion Picture — Comedy or Musical.
9. Memorable Soundtrack: The soundtrack of “Pretty Woman” featured tracks from renowned artists like David Bowie, Roxette, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers. It achieved massive success, attaining triple platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.
10. The Photoshop Mishap: A notable gaffe in the movie’s marketing was the use of a body double, Shelley Michelle, in the official poster. Julia Roberts’ head was superimposed over hers, leading to discrepancies in details like Richard Gere’s hair color.
These fascinating facts offer a glimpse into the captivating world of “Pretty Woman”, a film that continues to enchant audiences with its timeless appeal. Which fact surprised you the most? And perhaps this Valentine’s Day, you’ll find yourself revisiting this classic RomCom or discovering a new favorite.
