Overview

Pretty Woman is a 1990 American romantic comedy movie set in Los Angeles. Directed by Garry Marshall from a screenplay by J.F. Lawton, the film pairs Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in a modern fairy-tale about an unlikely relationship between a wealthy businessman and a woman he hires for companionship. Its blend of humor, romance and glossy production values made it a major commercial success and a defining mainstream film of the early 1990s.

Plot summary

The story follows Edward, a corporate executive, who hires Vivian, a street prostitute, to accompany him for several social engagements. As they spend time together in upscale settings—shopping, attending parties and navigating personal obstacles—their arrangement evolves into a deeper attachment. The film emphasizes themes of transformation, class differences and personal reinvention, using romantic-comedy conventions to resolve conflicts and lead toward a hopeful conclusion.

Cast and production

The film stars Julia Roberts as Vivian and Richard Gere as Edward. Garry Marshall directed, and the production was released by Touchstone Pictures. The soundtrack mixes pop songs with a score and famously features Roy Orbison’s ‘‘Oh, Pretty Woman’’ as a motif closely associated with the title and publicity for the film.

Reception and legacy

Pretty Woman was one of the highest-grossing films of 1990 and helped establish Julia Roberts as a leading Hollywood star. Roberts won the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy and earned an Academy Award nomination. Critics were divided: many praised the leads’ chemistry and the film’s charm, while others criticized its portrayal of sex work and the simplification of complex social issues. Despite mixed reviews, the movie retained broad popular appeal and became a cultural touchstone of the era.

Later adaptations and notable facts

The film’s success led to continued cultural presence, including theatrical adaptations and frequent reference in popular media. It remains widely discussed for its role in shaping romantic-comedy tropes of the 1990s and for launching Roberts’ career into superstardom. Scholars and commentators often contrast the film’s glossy tone with debates about representation and realism in portrayals of marginalized characters.

  • Main cast: Julia Roberts, Richard Gere.
  • Key awards: Golden Globe win for Julia Roberts; Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.