Disney Changed Everything About Pretty Woman

Pretty Woman became a romantic comedy that won hearts worldwide and turned Richard Gere and Julia Roberts into superstars. But it didn’t start out that way.

The Original Script Was Dark

Before Disney stepped in, the film was a gritty drama titled 3,000, written by then-unknown screenwriter J.F. Lawton. It explored class inequality and corporate greed in a much bleaker tone.

Disney Lightens the Mood

When Disney got involved, they changed the entire direction. The company downplayed the darker themes of sex work and class. Instead, they gave it a big budget and turned it into the charming romantic comedy we now know.

Al Pacino Almost Played Edward

It’s hard to imagine anyone but Richard Gere as Edward Lewis. But at first, Al Pacino was the top contender. He even read lines with Julia Roberts before turning the role down.

Although Pacino liked the script, he never explained why he passed. Later, he praised Roberts’ talent, saying, “This girl was phenomenal… this is going to be a hit.”

Movie Magic: Breakfast Switcheroo

There’s a funny moment in the breakfast scene. Vivian starts eating a croissant—but seconds later, it turns into a pancake!

Director Garry Marshall explained that he liked Roberts’ performance better in later takes with the pancake. So they kept it in, despite the continuity error. In one shot, the pancake has two bites. In the next, it magically has just one.

The Iconic Red Dress

Vivian’s transformation is marked by her stunning red evening gown. Costume designer Marilyn Vance created this unforgettable look for the opera scene.

Vogue called it “incredibly sexy without losing elegance.” Vance designed six outfits for Roberts, including the charming brown polka-dot dress—made from antique silk. Even her shoes were Chanel.

Gere’s Dapper Style

Vance also crafted Richard Gere’s wardrobe. His brown, navy, and blue-gray suits were carefully coordinated.

And that tie Vivian playfully grabs? Not designer. Vance bought it in a small L.A. store for just $48. It reappears throughout the film—sometimes tied in a different knot!

The $30,000 Shopping Spree

Edward introduces Vivian to high-end shopping on Rodeo Drive. That spree would’ve cost around $30,000 in real life, according to Vance.

It was pure retail fantasy—and Vivian’s stunned expression said it all.

Yes, the Necklace Was Real

That dazzling ruby-and-diamond necklace worn with the red gown? It was worth a whopping $250,000.

A security guard stood behind the director during filming to protect the real-life treasure.

The Jewelry Box Was a Prank

One of the film’s most iconic scenes—when the jewelry box snaps shut on Vivian’s fingers—was a spontaneous prank.

Roberts’ laugh was real. Director Garry Marshall told Gere to surprise her and “wake her up” during a sleepy morning on set. They loved the reaction so much, they kept it in the final cut.

Oops: Disappearing Shoes

In the park scene after the opera, Vivian removes Edward’s shoes. But seconds later, the shoes reappear on his feet. A small blooper—but a fun one to spot.

Where Did the Money Go?

Edward hands Vivian $100, and she tucks it into her boot. Later, when she kicks the boots off, the money is gone.

Was it a disappearing act? Or maybe her boots had a hidden pocket?

The Wandering Condoms

Vivian offers Edward four colored condoms. But in the next shot, the lineup has mysteriously changed.

Then in a later scene, they switch back again. It’s like the props were dancing backstage.

Gere Didn’t Love His Role

Richard Gere gained fame and fortune from Pretty Woman, but he hasn’t always spoken fondly of his character.

At a film festival, he said Edward was “just a suit and a good haircut.” One scene—where he plays piano while Vivian approaches—left him unimpressed. Still, director Marshall included it after Gere said he often played piano in hotel bars when jet-lagged.

The Chemistry Was Real

Julia Roberts and Richard Gere shared more than screen time. They bonded off-screen and stayed close over the years.

In 2017, Gere said they still talk often. Director Marshall recalled seeing their connection from the very first meeting. “Look at that chemistry,” he said. “They don’t know each other, and yet they’re doing great.”

Roberts Helped Seal the Deal

Roberts played a big role in convincing Gere to take the part.

She told SiriusXM, “If you don’t do this movie… and I lose this job, it’ll just be terrible.”

Gere remembered the moment she slid a note across the table. It read, “Please say yes.” He did—and the rest is movie history.

Even in a fairytale, not everything goes perfectly. But maybe that’s what makes Pretty Woman so lovable—and why we keep watching, again and again.

Did we miss your favorite blooper? Let us know and keep the fun going!