Introduction
The infectious laugh, the cascading auburn hair, the iconic red dress – even decades after its release, the image of Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman” is instantly recognizable, a cinematic shorthand for a modern-day fairytale. Released in nineteen ninety, “Pretty Woman” told the story of Vivian Ward, a Hollywood prostitute who enters into a week-long arrangement with wealthy businessman Edward Lewis. What begins as a transactional relationship soon blossoms into an unexpected romance, challenging social norms and captivating audiences worldwide. While the film itself is a blend of humor, romance, and wish fulfillment, it was Julia Roberts’s vibrant and emotionally resonant performance that truly elevated “Pretty Woman” and solidified her place as a global superstar.
“Pretty Woman” is more than just a romantic comedy; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Julia Roberts, with her undeniable charisma and raw talent, brought Vivian Ward to life in a way that resonated deeply with audiences. This article explores how Julia Roberts’s nuanced performance, combined with the film’s exploration of class and transformation, cemented her status as a global star and continues to spark conversation about the film’s legacy, solidifying “Pretty Woman” as a cornerstone of her illustrious career.
Becoming Vivian: The Casting Process and Character Development
The journey of “Pretty Woman” from script to screen was not without its hurdles, and the casting of Vivian Ward was a critical piece of the puzzle. Before Julia Roberts landed the role, several other actresses were considered, each bringing their own unique qualities to the table. However, something about Roberts’s audition resonated with director Garry Marshall and the producers. She possessed a certain vulnerability, a genuine warmth, and an undeniable spark that made her the perfect fit for Vivian.
Roberts herself approached the role with dedication and commitment. She spent time researching and observing, immersing herself in the world of her character. She wanted to understand Vivian’s motivations, her dreams, and her struggles. In interviews, Roberts has spoken about the importance of portraying Vivian as a strong, independent woman who makes her own choices, even within the constraints of her circumstances. She brought empathy to the role, ensuring that Vivian was not simply a caricature but a complex and relatable human being. She wanted the audience to see beyond the surface and understand the person underneath, a woman with dreams and desires, just like anyone else.
The transformation was not just internal; it was also visual. The filmmakers collaborated with costume designers and makeup artists to create a look that reflected Vivian’s journey from a Hollywood street worker to a sophisticated woman. From the initial revealing outfits to the elegant gowns she wears later in the film, each piece of clothing tells a story about Vivian’s evolving sense of self. The iconic red dress, in particular, has become a symbol of her transformation, a visual representation of her newfound confidence and self-respect. The overall process served Julia Roberts well, as the film was a box office smash, making her one of the most sought after actresses.
Iconic Scenes: A Showcase of Roberts’s Talent
“Pretty Woman” is filled with memorable moments that highlight Julia Roberts’s range as an actress. These scenes are not just entertaining; they also reveal the depth and complexity of Vivian Ward’s character.
The Rodeo Drive Scene
One of the most impactful scenes is undoubtedly the Rodeo Drive sequence. Vivian, dressed in her initial attire, is turned away from several high-end boutiques, subjected to judgmental stares and condescending remarks. Julia Roberts masterfully portrays Vivian’s hurt and humiliation, capturing the sting of social prejudice. This scene is a stark reminder of the power of appearances and the challenges faced by those who are marginalized.
The Opera Scene
In stark contrast, the opera scene is a moment of profound emotional resonance. As Vivian experiences Verdi’s “La Traviata,” she is visibly moved by the tragic love story unfolding on stage. Julia Roberts’s performance in this scene is subtle yet powerful, conveying a depth of emotion that transcends words. The tears in her eyes reflect Vivian’s own yearning for love and connection, highlighting the universality of the human experience.
The Bathtub Scene
The bathtub scene is another iconic moment, showcasing Roberts’s ability to blend vulnerability with humor. As Vivian sings along to Prince in the bathtub, her infectious joy is contagious. This scene is a reminder of Vivian’s youthful spirit and her ability to find joy in simple pleasures, even amidst challenging circumstances.
The Staircase Scene
Finally, the staircase scene, where Edward dramatically climbs the fire escape to declare his love for Vivian, is a quintessential romantic moment. Julia Roberts perfectly captures Vivian’s surprise, joy, and disbelief as she realizes that her fairytale dreams are coming true. The scene encapsulates the film’s central theme of transformation and the power of love to overcome social barriers.
Critical Acclaim and Box Office Success
“Pretty Woman” was a commercial triumph, exceeding all expectations at the box office. Its financial success catapulted Julia Roberts to a new level of stardom. The film also garnered significant critical attention, with many praising Roberts’s performance as a standout.
Critics lauded Roberts for her charisma, her vulnerability, and her ability to make Vivian a relatable and sympathetic character. She was praised for bringing depth and nuance to a role that could have easily been a stereotypical portrayal.
Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Although she did not win the Oscar that year, the nomination solidified her position as one of the leading actresses in Hollywood. The film’s success at the box office and critical reception served as a launchpad for her career, opening doors to a wide range of roles and opportunities.
A Lasting Legacy: Cultural Impact and Enduring Appeal
“Pretty Woman” had a profound impact on popular culture, influencing fashion trends, romantic ideals, and societal perceptions of class. The film’s iconic fashion moments, from Vivian’s initial outfits to her elegant gowns, inspired a generation of women. The film’s portrayal of a modern-day fairytale, where love transcends social barriers, resonated with audiences seeking escapism and hope.
However, “Pretty Woman” has also faced criticism over the years, particularly for its romanticized portrayal of prostitution and its simplistic resolution of complex social issues. Some critics argue that the film perpetuates unrealistic expectations about love and relationships, while others question its depiction of class dynamics.
Despite these criticisms, “Pretty Woman” continues to be a beloved film for many. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless themes of love, transformation, and self-discovery. Julia Roberts’s performance as Vivian Ward remains a key factor in the film’s enduring appeal. She brought a sense of authenticity and warmth to the role, making Vivian a character that audiences could connect with and root for. The film still brings joy to new audiences, as Julia Roberts’ “Pretty Woman” is one of the most popular romantic comedies of all time.
“Pretty Woman” has had a lasting impact on society, with phrases and scenes from the film becoming commonplace in everyday conversations and popular culture. The film’s soundtrack was a massive success, featuring songs that are still played on the radio today. Furthermore, the film’s exploration of social class and upward mobility has made it a topic of discussion in academic circles. The film’s influence extends beyond entertainment, as it has also sparked conversations about gender roles, relationships, and the complexities of modern society. In many ways, “Pretty Woman” has become more than just a movie; it’s a cultural touchstone that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Conclusion: A Career Defining Role
Julia Roberts’s portrayal of Vivian Ward in “Pretty Woman” is far more than just a star-making role; it is a testament to her extraordinary talent and the enduring power of a well-crafted character. It remains a cornerstone in her filmography, forever linked to her name and image. She breathed life into Vivian, transforming her from a fictional character into a relatable and inspiring figure. “Pretty Woman” not only launched Roberts into superstardom but also cemented her status as one of Hollywood’s most beloved and respected actresses.
“Pretty Woman” is a cultural touchstone, a film that continues to resonate with audiences due to its timeless themes and Julia Roberts’s unforgettable performance. Her portrayal of Vivian Ward is a testament to her talent and the enduring power of a well-crafted character that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Julia Roberts made “Pretty Woman” an unforgettable film, ensuring its place in cinematic history.
