Julia Roberts, the beloved Hollywood icon, took audiences on a rollercoaster of emotions with her unforgettable role in the 1990 romantic comedy classic, “Pretty Woman.” But what many fans may not know is that the film’s origins were far from the lighthearted fairy tale we’ve come to adore.
In an exclusive interview with Julia Roberts, she revealed the shocking twist in the film’s production that left her “crushed” and how Disney transformed a dark tale into a box office sensation.
Originally titled “$3,000,” the film was set to delve into the gritty underworld of Los Angeles, focusing on Vivian Ward, a drug-addicted prostitute, and her fleeting encounter with the wealthy businessman, Edward, played by Richard Gere. In this dark version, the story concluded with Edward leaving Vivian stranded in a desolate side street, tossing the money at her, and driving away. Julia Roberts, now 56, vividly recalls her initial excitement for this challenging role, stating, “I got that part in that movie and felt really proud, but when the production company folded and the film disappeared I was crushed.”
The actress shared these revelations during her appearance on “The Graham Norton Show” while promoting her Netflix film, “Leave the World Behind.” It was a pivotal moment in her career when the original project crumbled, leaving her uncertain about what the future held. Little did she know that destiny had a different path in store for her.
The unimaginable twist came when Disney stepped in to resurrect the project, turning it into the romantic comedy we cherish today. The film’s transformation from darkness to light was nothing short of miraculous. Julia Roberts, reflecting on this transition, remarked, “But then Disney picked it up, which seemed so unlikely, and made it funny.” The result was a cinematic masterpiece that grossed a staggering $463.4 million at the box office.
“Pretty Woman” tells the story of Vivian, an LA prostitute, hired by Edward to accompany him to various events over a weekend. What unfolds is a tale of love against all odds, as the unlikely pair end up falling head over heels for each other. Julia Roberts’ outstanding performance in the film earned her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s most talented actresses.
The film’s success didn’t stop at the box office. In 2018, it was adapted into a Broadway musical that ran for an entire year at the Nederlander theater in New York City, further cementing its place in entertainment history.
Julia Roberts’ journey with “Pretty Woman” is a story of perseverance and transformation, not just on screen, but behind the scenes as well. She recalled her initial skepticism when Disney took over the project, jokingly asking, “Are they gonna animate it? How does this become a Disney movie?” Little did she know that Disney’s touch of magic would turn her career around in a remarkable way.
In preparation for her role as Vivian, Julia Roberts went to great lengths to understand the world of the character. She spent time with real-life sex workers, recruiting two young women who frequented a clinic and paying them $35 each to meet with her. This dedication to her craft allowed her to fully embody the character, bringing an authentic depth to her portrayal.
One memorable anecdote from the set involves Julia’s spontaneous road trip with the two women she had met. Barbara Marshall, widow of Garry Marshall, the film’s director, recalled the moment when Julia yelled down the hall, “Bye, Barbara. We’re going to take a drive. We’ll be back later.” It was a testament to Julia’s adventurous spirit and her commitment to immersing herself in the role.
The challenges and triumphs of “Pretty Woman” are a testament to Julia Roberts’ talent and the transformative power of filmmaking. The film not only captivated audiences with its heartwarming love story but also provided a platform for Julia Roberts to showcase her incredible acting prowess.
As we look back on this iconic film, we’re reminded that even when faced with setbacks and uncertainty, the magic of cinema can turn a dark tale into a timeless classic, and Julia Roberts’ journey from “crushed” to celebrated is proof that dreams can indeed come true in Hollywood.
