Pub.lished Movie Reviews


Pretty Woman (1990)

Rating: 8/10
Runtime 119 minutes

"Pretty Woman" (1990) is a movie that prominently features Edward Lewis, a formidable corporate raider hailing from New York City. His business involves the acquisition and subsequent dismantlement of failing companies, which he then sells off for a hefty profit. He invites Jessica, his current girlfriend, to accompany him on a business excursion. However, she quickly tires of his demanding nature and decides to end their relationship.

One night, Edward, leaving a business party in the Hollywood Hills, takes his lawyer's Lotus Esprit sports car for a spin. Unintentionally, he ends up in the city's notorious red-light district on Hollywood Boulevard. It is here that he encounters Vivian Ward, a streetwalker.

Confused and unable to operate the car's manual transmission, Edward enlists Vivian's help to navigate him to the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel. On a whim, he hires Vivian for the night. Despite initial discomfort, he finds her charisma enchanting and eventually sleeps with her.

The subsequent day, Edward requests Vivian's company for a week-long series of business events. These events are integral to his plan to acquire James Morse's shipbuilding company. After some haggling, he offers Vivian $3,000, which she eagerly accepts. He also provides her with funds to purchase suitable attire.

What is truly remarkable about "Pretty Woman" is its inherent innocence. Despite starring Richard Gere, Hollywood's leading male sex symbol, and being centered around his character's blossoming love affair with a prostitute, the movie maintains a sweet, openhearted tone. This romantic fable is the most charming we've seen since "The Princess Bride." The film had the potential to take us on a gritty journey through the harsh realities of life, but instead, it radiates with pure romance.


Rating: 8/10
Runtime: 119 minutes
IMDB: 7/10 (360k votes)
Rotten Tomatoes: 63%
First Reviewed: 2007-01-02
Last Updated: 2024-09-29

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Those who love "Pretty Woman" (1990) will also love "Grease" (1978) because both movies are iconic romantic comedies that center around unconventional love stories. They feature charismatic leads with great chemistry, memorable dialogue, and catchy musical numbers that have stood the test of time. Both films also focus on themes of transformation and social barriers, with protagonists who change and grow throughout the story, ultimately finding happiness in their own unique way.

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"Pretty Woman" and "Dirty Dancing" are iconic romantic dramas that were seminal hits in the late 80s and early 90s. They both feature compelling love stories set against unique backdrops that provide a rich vein of conflict and drama. "Pretty Woman" is a modern Cinderella-story about a prostitute and a businessman, while "Dirty Dancing" is a coming-of-age tale about a young woman and a dance instructor set in the 60s. Both films are filled with memorable scenes, sharp dialogue, and an unforgettable soundtrack that complements the emotional highs and lows of the story. They are also buoyed by the sparkling chemistry between their leads – Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in "Pretty Woman", and Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey in "Dirty Dancing". These film's blend of romance, drama, and a touch of social commentary will appeal to those who love character-driven stories.

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Lovers of "Pretty Woman" will also love "Steel Magnolias" because both films are iconic, character-driven dramas from the late 80s and early 90s that blend romance, humor, and emotional depth. Both films showcase strong female characters navigating personal relationships and life challenges, with underlying themes of love, friendship, and resilience. The witty dialogue, memorable performances, and heart-tugging narratives in "Steel Magnolias" are sure to appeal to those who enjoyed the same elements in "Pretty Woman".

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For those who found enjoyment in the charming dynamic of "Pretty Woman", "The Proposal" will not disappoint. With a powerful performance by Sandra Bullock and stellar chemistry with co-star Ryan Reynolds, this comedy-drama displays a unique take on a love story. Bullock plays a hard-nosed editor who forces her assistant, played by Reynolds, into a fake engagement to avoid deportation. However, the line between fake and real feelings becomes blurry, making for an entertaining watch.

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