Movie Review: Pretty Woman (1990)
Pretty Woman is a classic romantic comedy directed by Garry Marshall, starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. The film became an iconic love story of the 1990s, blending romance, humor, and a modern-day Cinderella theme.
Plot Overview
Edward Lewis (Richard Gere), a wealthy businessman, hires Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts), a charismatic Hollywood prostitute, to accompany him for a week as his escort. What starts as a business arrangement soon transforms into an unexpected love story as Vivian and Edward begin to change each other’s perspectives on life, love, and self-worth.
Strengths
Julia Roberts’ Star-Making Performance: Her portrayal of Vivian is charming, radiant, and full of warmth, making her one of the most beloved rom-com heroines of all time.
Chemistry Between Leads: The dynamic between Richard Gere’s reserved businessman and Julia Roberts’ lively and free-spirited character creates an engaging and heartwarming romance.
Memorable Scenes & Quotes: From the famous shopping spree scene (“Big mistake. Huge!”) to the rooftop finale, the film is filled with iconic moments.
Feel-Good Factor: Pretty Woman is a perfect blend of romance, comedy, and fairy-tale escapism, making it an uplifting watch.
Soundtrack: Featuring Roy Orbison’s “Oh, Pretty Woman,” the music adds to the film’s charm and nostalgia.
Weaknesses
Unrealistic Premise: While entertaining, the idea of a wealthy businessman falling for a prostitute and transforming her life is a Hollywood fantasy that doesn’t reflect reality.
Dated Elements: Some aspects of the film, especially gender roles and the portrayal of sex work, may feel outdated by today’s standards.
Simplistic Character Development: The story focuses more on the romance than deeply exploring the characters’ individual struggles or backgrounds.
Final Verdict
Pretty Woman remains a timeless romantic comedy, thanks to its charismatic leads, iconic moments, and feel-good story. While some elements may feel unrealistic or outdated, its charm and Julia Roberts’ unforgettable performance continue to make it a beloved classic.
⭐ Rating: 8.5/10
Would you like recommendations for similar rom-coms or a comparison with other Julia Roberts films?
