Pretty Woman is one of those films that I can watch over and over without ever getting tired of it.
Still, it’s funny that after countless viewings, I’d never noticed these little bloopers and behind-the-scenes quirks that offer a fresh perspective on the movie.
Disney’s Influence Changed the Story
Pretty Woman captured the hearts of millions as a romantic comedy and launched Richard Gere and Julia Roberts into Hollywood stardom.
But it wasn’t always meant to be that way. The original script, titled 3,000 and written by screenwriter J.F. Lawton, delved into much darker themes about social inequality and corporate exploitation.
However, when Disney took over, the entire direction of the film changed. Rather than focusing on class struggles and the gritty reality of LA, Disney boosted the budget and transformed it into a charming rom-com.
Al Pacino as Edward?
For many, it’s hard to picture anyone other than Richard Gere as Edward Lewis, the wealthy businessman who hires Vivian (played by Julia Roberts) for a week.
The casting process was lengthy, and Al Pacino was initially in the running for the role of Edward. He even did a casting read with Julia Roberts but ultimately chose not to pursue the role.
Pacino hasn’t shared his exact reasons for turning it down, though he’s expressed admiration for Roberts’ talent. He later remarked, “You could just tell during the reading that this was going to be a hit. Julia was incredible, and I remember asking Garry [Marshall, the director], ‘Where did you find her?’”
Pacino’s instincts proved correct, as Roberts’ performance would become career-defining.
The Croissant That Turned Into a Pancake
One amusing continuity slip-up involves the breakfast scene. Vivian starts off eating a croissant as she chats with Edward, but suddenly, her croissant becomes a pancake.
Director Garry Marshall revealed that he preferred Roberts’ acting in later takes, which involved her eating a pancake. But this led to a continuity error: one moment, the pancake has two bites taken out of it, and the next, it appears freshly bitten.
The Iconic Red Dress
The striking red dress Julia Roberts’ character wears in Pretty Woman has become iconic. It’s a symbol of her character’s transformation, worn during a memorable night at the opera with Edward.
According to Vogue, the gown is “alluring yet elegant.” Costume designer Marilyn Vance was the mastermind behind that unforgettable look, creating six signature outfits for Vivian Ward. Vance also handled Gere’s wardrobe, giving his character a polished, coordinated look.
One of Vivian’s most charming looks—the brown polka-dot dress worn to the horse race—was made from vintage silk fabric found in a little shop in LA. And the shoes? Chanel, of course!
Gere’s Famous Tie
Gere’s wardrobe was carefully curated by Vance, featuring a range of stylish suits in shades of navy, brown, and blue-gray.
Remember the tie Vivian “borrows” from a store for Edward? It wasn’t designer but rather a simple purchase from a local Los Angeles shop, costing only $48.
The tie shows up in several scenes and mysteriously changes knots. In the polo match scene, Edward’s tie is in a half-Windsor knot, but later, it’s tied in a full-Windsor with a spread-collar shirt.
That Extravagant Shopping Spree
When Edward introduces Vivian to the luxuries of Rodeo Drive, he takes her on a lavish shopping spree. According to designer Marilyn Vance, that afternoon splurge would’ve cost around $30,000. It’s no wonder Vivian looked stunned—it was retail therapy at a whole new level!
The Real Ruby-and-Diamond Necklace
The gorgeous necklace Julia Roberts wears with her red ball gown—set with rubies and diamonds—was worth a jaw-dropping $250,000.
Interestingly, while they filmed the scene, a security guard was hired to keep a close eye on the priceless jewelry.
The Jewelry Box Surprise
The scene where Edward gifts Vivian the necklace is among the most beloved moments in the film. But funnily enough, the playful jewelry box snap wasn’t in the original script—it was a lighthearted prank meant for the blooper reel!
4o