Pretty Woman

| 1990

Directed by: Garry Marshall

Main Plot

"Pretty Woman" is a romantic comedy directed by Garry Marshall that explores the unexpected relationship between a wealthy businessman and a spirited prostitute. The film begins with Edward Lewis, a successful but emotionally detached corporate raider, who is in Los Angeles for business dealings. After getting lost while driving his lawyer's sports car, Edward encounters Vivian Ward in the Hollywood area. He hires her to provide directions and soon proposes that she accompany him for a week as his escort for several business and social functions. As the week progresses, the transactional nature of their arrangement develops into a genuine connection. Both Edward and Vivian find themselves navigating feelings and worlds far removed from their own experiences. The film delves into themes of transformation and social barriers, as both main characters influence each other's perspectives and lives profoundly. "Pretty Woman" is celebrated for its charming blend of humor and romance, and it challenges the norms of societal class and romantic expectations.

Characters

  • Richard Gere plays Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman who enters a transformative relationship with a Hollywood prostitute, Vivian Ward, leading to mutual emotional growth.
  • Julia Roberts plays Vivian Ward, a prostitute who enters a transformative relationship with a wealthy businessman, altering both their lives.
  • Jason Alexander played Philip Stuckey, the lawyer and business associate who disapproves of the protagonist's relationship with a prostitute, ultimately attempting to assault her.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of "Pretty Woman," directed by Garry Marshall, the story wraps up with a romantic and transformative ending. Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman played by Richard Gere, experiences a change of heart influenced by his relationship with Vivian Ward, a Hollywood prostitute portrayed by Julia Roberts. Throughout the film, their business arrangement evolves into a deeper, genuine connection. In the final scenes, Edward faces a moral reckoning, choosing to pursue a more ethical path in his professional life, inspired by Vivian's influence. The climax of the movie occurs when Edward, in a grand romantic gesture, overcomes his fear of heights to climb up the fire escape of Vivian's apartment, symbolizing his willingness to conquer his fears for love. He arrives with flowers in hand, ready to rescue her, but she playfully asserts that she rescues him right back. This scene encapsulates the movie's theme of mutual rescue and transformation. The film concludes with Edward and Vivian kissing on the fire escape, suggesting a hopeful future together, breaking away from their past lives and constraints. This ending underscores the fairy tale element of the narrative, emphasizing love and personal growth over societal expectations and material wealth.

Garry Marshall Comedy Romance Richard Gere Julia Roberts Jason Alexander