Gary Marshall’s Pretty Woman is, at its heart, a modern fairytale. While outwardly a romantic comedy, its enduring appeal stems from a careful blend of cinematic inspirations. The film owes a significant debt to classic Hollywood, drawing thematic and narrative elements from Cinderella narratives, screwball comedies, and the social commentaries of directors like Frank Capra and George Cukor, all filtered through Marshall’s uniquely accessible and sentimental lens.
Tracing the Influences: Classic Hollywood Echoes
Marshall, known for his light-hearted touch and ensemble casts, wasn’t necessarily striving for groundbreaking cinematic innovation with Pretty Woman. He was, however, incredibly astute at identifying what resonated with audiences. He understood the power of familiar tropes and archetypes.
The Cinderella Myth: A Foundation
The most obvious influence is the Cinderella story. This archetypal narrative, about a woman lifted from obscurity to a life of luxury and love, is the bedrock upon which Pretty Woman is built. Vivian Ward, played by Julia Roberts, is a contemporary Cinderella. Richard Gere’s Edward Lewis is the prince. The transformation scene, complete with a shopping spree and a stunning makeover, is a direct nod to the magical moments in classic Cinderella tales. Marshall intentionally leverages this pre-existing narrative familiarity to instantly engage the audience and establish the emotional stakes of the film.
Screwball Comedy: Wit and Charm
Beyond the fairytale, Pretty Woman inherits elements from screwball comedies of the 1930s and 40s. These films, characterized by witty banter, fast-paced dialogue, and improbable situations, often featured clashes between social classes and strong female characters. While Pretty Woman isn’t a pure screwball comedy, the sparkling chemistry between Roberts and Gere, their playful arguments, and the exaggerated reactions of supporting characters (like Héctor Elizondo’s Barney Thompson) are reminiscent of the genre. Films like Howard Hawks’ Bringing Up Baby and Frank Capra’s It Happened One Night provide clear examples of the comedic style that subtly permeates Pretty Woman.
Social Commentary: Capra and Cukor’s Lens
While not explicitly political, Pretty Woman touches upon themes of class, wealth, and societal prejudice. This subtle social commentary aligns with the work of directors like Frank Capra, who often explored the struggles of ordinary people against powerful institutions, and George Cukor, known for his insightful portrayals of female characters and their challenges within patriarchal structures. While Marshall avoids the overt criticism of Capra or the sophisticated nuance of Cukor, Pretty Woman does acknowledge the systemic inequalities that Vivian faces. Her initial treatment by the Beverly Hills boutique staff, for example, highlights the prejudice she encounters due to her profession and social status.
Marshall’s Personal Stamp
Ultimately, Pretty Woman is unmistakably a Gary Marshall film. He imbues the classic tropes with his signature warmth, sentimentality, and emphasis on character relationships. Unlike some of the darker and more cynical takes on the Cinderella story, Marshall’s version offers a genuinely optimistic and feel-good ending.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Was Pretty Woman originally intended to be a darker film?
Yes, the original script, titled “$3,000,” was a much darker and grittier story exploring the harsh realities of prostitution in Los Angeles. Disney, however, wanted a more palatable and optimistic narrative, leading to significant rewrites and a softening of the original premise. Marshall played a crucial role in transforming the story into the romantic comedy we know today.
FAQ 2: How did the success of Pretty Woman influence subsequent romantic comedies?
Pretty Woman set a new standard for romantic comedies in the 1990s, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the Cinderella story and the power of star chemistry. Its success paved the way for a wave of similar films featuring improbable romances and transformative makeovers. The “hooker with a heart of gold” trope became a surprisingly popular element in the genre.
FAQ 3: Did Julia Roberts’ performance draw inspiration from any particular actresses?
While Roberts brought her own unique charm and vulnerability to the role of Vivian, some critics have noted similarities to actresses like Audrey Hepburn, particularly in her transformation scenes and overall elegance. However, Roberts’ portrayal was distinctly modern and imbued with a strength and independence that set it apart from earlier interpretations of the “Cinderella” character.
FAQ 4: What role did Héctor Elizondo play in shaping the film’s tone?
Héctor Elizondo, a frequent collaborator with Gary Marshall, provided crucial emotional support and guidance to Vivian as Barney Thompson, the hotel manager. His character acts as a surrogate father figure, offering her valuable life lessons and helping her navigate the unfamiliar world of wealth and privilege. Elizondo’s presence added a layer of warmth and sincerity to the film.
FAQ 5: How did the film’s soundtrack contribute to its success?
The soundtrack to Pretty Woman was a massive hit, featuring iconic songs like Roy Orbison’s “Oh, Pretty Woman” and Roxette’s “It Must Have Been Love.” These songs not only enhanced the romantic atmosphere of the film but also became cultural touchstones, forever associated with the story and its characters. The music played a vital role in amplifying the film’s emotional impact.
FAQ 6: Was there any controversy surrounding the film’s depiction of prostitution?
Yes, the film received criticism for romanticizing and sanitizing the realities of prostitution. Some argued that it presented a unrealistic and potentially harmful portrayal of a profession that is often associated with exploitation, violence, and poverty. This critique highlights the tension between the film’s fairytale aspirations and the inherent complexities of its subject matter.
FAQ 7: How did the setting of Beverly Hills contribute to the film’s overall message?
Beverly Hills serves as a symbol of wealth, glamour, and social exclusivity in Pretty Woman. The contrast between Vivian’s initial outsider status and her eventual acceptance into this world underscores the film’s themes of transformation and social mobility. The luxurious setting amplifies the fairytale aspect of the story.
FAQ 8: Did Richard Gere have any input into the development of his character, Edward Lewis?
Richard Gere reportedly contributed to the characterization of Edward Lewis, making him less of a stereotypical cold-hearted businessman and more of a conflicted and ultimately sympathetic figure. His performance helped to humanize the character and make his transformation believable. Gere’s input added depth and complexity to Edward’s arc.
FAQ 9: What is the significance of the opera scene in Pretty Woman?
The opera scene in Pretty Woman is a pivotal moment in Vivian’s journey. It represents her exposure to a new world of culture and beauty, and it allows her to connect with Edward on a deeper emotional level. The opera, La Traviata, is a story about a courtesan who finds love and redemption, mirroring Vivian’s own experiences. This scene is a powerful metaphor for Vivian’s transformation.
FAQ 10: How does Pretty Woman subvert or challenge traditional gender roles?
While Pretty Woman presents a seemingly traditional romance, it also offers a subtly subversive take on gender roles. Vivian is not a passive damsel in distress; she is a strong and independent woman who takes control of her own life. She challenges Edward’s preconceived notions about women and ultimately helps him to become a better person. Vivian is not simply rescued; she saves herself.
FAQ 11: Are there any other Gary Marshall films that share similar themes or stylistic elements with Pretty Woman?
Several other Gary Marshall films, such as The Princess Diaries and Runaway Bride, explore similar themes of transformation, self-discovery, and the power of love. These films are also characterized by their light-hearted humor, ensemble casts, and feel-good endings. Marshall consistently returned to these themes throughout his career.
FAQ 12: What is Pretty Woman‘s enduring legacy and why does it continue to resonate with audiences today?
Pretty Woman‘s enduring legacy lies in its ability to tell a timeless story of love, transformation, and social mobility in a way that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. Despite its flaws and criticisms, the film continues to resonate with audiences because it offers a hopeful and optimistic vision of the world, where anyone can find happiness and fulfillment, regardless of their background or circumstances. The fairytale ending, combined with the undeniable chemistry between Roberts and Gere, ensures its continued popularity.