"Revisiting The Cinderella Story For The Modern Age"
Posted Friday, Nov 24, 2023 95
In this modern twist on the clichéd rags-to-riches romance, a wealthy businessman, Edward Lewis, hires a vivacious street-smart prostitute, Vivian Ward, to accompany him to a week`s worth of high society events. What starts as a business arrangement blossoms into genuine affection and transformative experience for both.
At its heart, `Pretty Woman` delves into themes of love transcending social boundaries, personal transformation, and the power of true connection. The movie strikes a harmonious balance between fairy-tale romance and the stark realities of class and survival, presented with a lighthearted, often comedic tone.
Julia Roberts` portrayal of Vivian is both endearing and spirited, earning her a well-deserved Oscar nomination. Richard Gere`s Edward comes across as composed yet vulnerable, showing subtle transformation throughout. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable and provides the soul of the narrative.
Garry Marshall`s direction is deft and personable, highlighting the film`s romantic essence while navigating potentially gritty subject matter with notable sensitivity and warmth.
The soundtrack is a mix of heartfelt ballads and upbeat 80s and 90s pop tunes, with the anthem `Oh, Pretty Woman` by Roy Orbison serving as a fitting and iconic musical motif.
The cinematography captures both the extravagance of Beverly Hills and the gloomier tones of the Los Angeles streets, creating a visual contrast that mirrors the film`s thematic juxtapositions.
The production design plays a pivotal role, using settings from opulent hotel suites to dingy apartments to juxtapose Vivian and Edward`s vastly different worlds.
Special effects are minimal as the narrative relies more on story and character than visual spectacle.
The film`s editing seamlessly weaves together the dualities in Vivian’s life, providing a smooth viewing experience that keeps the audience engaged from beginning to end.
With a brisk pace, `Pretty Woman` manages to cover considerable emotional ground, keeping viewers hooked while allowing them to savor the relationship`s development.
The dialog is witty, engaging, and oftentimes poignant, with memorable lines that contribute to the characters` depth and several iconic, quotable moments.
While `Pretty Woman` has been criticized for its glamorization of prostitution and some fairy-tale simplifications, its impeccable charm and the lead actors` performances make it easy to be drawn into the fantasy.
Watching `Pretty Woman` is a heartwarming experience that remains as fresh and joyful as it was upon release. The film doesn’t shy away from the complexities of its premise, ensuring the enchantment is grounded with a touch of reality. Its cultural impact resonates, turning it into a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its wit, romance, and human insight. It`s a film that doesn`t just tell a love story—it invites you to fall in love with the story itself.