Julia Roberts Reflects on the Cultural Shifts Surrounding "Pretty Woman"

Julia Roberts, the star of the iconic 1990 romantic comedy "Pretty Woman," recently shared her thoughts on how cultural shifts have altered perceptions of the film over the past 36 years. In an interview with Deadline, Roberts, now 58, stated that she would find it "impossible" to reprise her role as Vivian Ward, a sex worker who falls in love with wealthy businessman Edward Lewis, played by Richard Gere. She explained that her life experiences have changed her perspective on the character, saying, “I have too many years of the weight of the world inside of me now that I wouldn’t be able to kind of levitate in a movie like that.”

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Roberts acknowledged that societal views on films like "Pretty Woman" have evolved significantly. She noted, “Anytime you have a huge passage of time and cultural shifts… think about all the movies and plays of the ’20s and ’30s and ’40s.” This reflection highlights how past narratives can be reevaluated through contemporary lenses, often revealing outdated or problematic themes. Roberts cited classic films such as "Gone With the Wind" as examples of works that reflect the values and blind spots of their time, emphasizing that "times change, people change, ideas change."

Julia Roberts Says a 'Pretty Woman' Remake Would Be “Impossible”

The original version of "Pretty Woman" was intended to be darker, with a much grittier ending where Roberts' character is abandoned in an alley. However, after the involvement of producer Disney and director Garry Marshall, the film was reimagined into the romantic comedy that became a massive success, grossing over $463 million worldwide. Roberts expressed gratitude for this transformation, stating, “Thank God it fell apart,” referring to the original script.

People Magazine

Despite its commercial success, "Pretty Woman" has faced criticism in recent years for its portrayal of a transactional relationship and the "damsel-in-distress" narrative. Roberts understands why some viewers now feel uncomfortable with the film's premise, which centers on a wealthy man rescuing a woman from poverty. This reevaluation reflects broader societal conversations about gender roles and the representation of women in media.

Julia Roberts Gives Brutally Honest Response On Whether She Would Have Accepted Pretty Woman Today

Roberts' reflections on "Pretty Woman" suggest that while the film remains a defining classic of 1990s cinema, it is firmly rooted in its era. The actress's insights underscore the importance of recognizing how cultural contexts shape our understanding of art and storytelling. As society continues to evolve, so too will the narratives we choose to celebrate and critique.

Julia Roberts Says a 'Pretty Woman' Remake Would Be “Impossible”