No one noticed this giant blooper in the iconic Pretty Woman, Look closer
“Pretty Woman” is one of those timeless movies that never loses its charm, no matter how many times I watch it. Yet, after all those viewings, I only recently noticed some surprising bloopers and behind-the-scenes quirks that change how we see the film.
Disney Changed the Whole Story
When Pretty Woman debuted, it charmed audiences and catapulted Julia Roberts and Richard Gere into stardom. But the original script, titled 3,000 by screenwriter J.F. Lawton, was much darker, focusing on themes of class disparity and corporate greed. Disney reimagined the plot, adding a generous budget and transforming it into the romantic comedy we know and love, lightening its original tone.
Al Pacino Turned Down the Lead Role
It’s hard to picture anyone but Richard Gere as Edward, the wealthy businessman. Yet, Al Pacino was initially considered for the part, even doing a script reading with Roberts before he decided to turn it down. Although he admired the script, Pacino later praised Roberts, calling her performance “phenomenal.”
The Croissant That Magically Turns Into a Pancake
In the breakfast scene, Vivian starts nibbling on a croissant. Moments later, it somehow transforms into a pancake. Director Garry Marshall explained that he preferred Roberts’ later takes, where she’s eating the pancake, but this led to a continuity error. Watch closely, and you’ll notice the bites and bite patterns mysteriously change!
Behind That Iconic Red Dress
The stunning red gown Roberts wears to the opera has become a symbol of transformation in the film. Created by costume designer Marilyn Vance, the dress was crafted to evoke empowerment and grace. The brown-and-white polka dot outfit she wears to the horse races was also a gem, made from antique fabric found in a small shop in Los Angeles, complete with Chanel shoes for a touch of elegance.
Richard Gere’s Mysterious Tie
Costume designer Marilyn Vance picked up Edward’s iconic tie from a shop for $48. Though it may look ordinary, the tie becomes an essential part of Edward’s wardrobe—and even changes knots and styles in different scenes. Edward’s polo match tie knot and collar transform in the next shot, adding another subtle continuity error.
The Famous “Obscene” Shopping Spree
One of the film’s most memorable scenes is Vivian’s extravagant Rodeo Drive shopping spree. Designer Vance estimated this spree would cost Edward at least $30,000—an unforgettable “retail therapy” experience that shows the excess and luxury of his world.
A Real Ruby-and-Diamond Necklace
That breathtaking ruby-and-diamond necklace Vivian wears with her red gown is the real deal, valued at over $250,000. For security, an armed guard was on set while filming, ensuring the necklace stayed safe.
The Jewelry Box Gag
One of the most iconic scenes features Edward snapping a jewelry box shut on Vivian’s fingers, prompting her unforgettable laugh. This was an unscripted prank intended for the gag reel, orchestrated by director Garry Marshall to keep Roberts, who was just 23, alert during long days of filming. The laugh was so genuine they decided to keep it in the film.
Edward’s Disappearing Shoes
When Edward and Vivian leave the opera, Vivian takes off Edward’s shoes at the park. Yet, as he lies down, his shoes mysteriously reappear, adding another blooper to the film’s continuity list.
Money in the Boot
In a penthouse scene, Vivian stashes a $100 bill Edward gives her into her boot. Later, when she removes the boots, the money is nowhere to be found. A small mystery, but one that adds a layer of amusement for fans who notice these little inconsistencies.
Color-Changing Condoms
In a scene where Vivian shows Edward a selection of colorful condoms, they switch positions between shots, as if playing their own little game.
Gere’s Opinion on Edward
Although Pretty Woman was a huge success, Gere wasn’t always fond of his character, calling Edward “criminally underwritten.” Reflecting on the piano scene he improvised, he hinted at feeling there was more potential in Edward than the script conveyed.
Off-Screen Chemistry Between Roberts and Gere
The chemistry between Roberts and Gere in Pretty Woman is legendary, and it extended off-screen. They remained close friends over the years, even speaking “three or four times a day” back when they filmed the movie. Director Marshall noticed their connection early on, saying, “Look at that chemistry… they don’t know each other, and yet they’re doing great.”
Roberts’ Final Plea to Gere
When Al Pacino passed on the role, Roberts was determined Gere should be her on-screen partner. During their initial meeting, Roberts wrote “Please say yes” on a piece of paper and slid it to Gere, who couldn’t resist. And that’s how a modern-day fairytale romance came to life onscreen.
These behind-the-scenes stories and charming bloopers are part of what makes Pretty Woman so delightful to revisit. It’s a movie that keeps us coming back for another look, year after year.