The Red Evening Gown
Who would’ve thought that Vivian’s eye-catching red dress had caused trouble within the production group? The studio wanted her to wear a black dress for a more sophisticated look, but Marilyn Vance-Straker, the costume designer, insisted on the red dress we adore.
The latter eventually won the argument after a number of screen testing. We just can’t imagine Julia Roberts donning a black dress instead.
The Song That Matched the Title
While it was already decided that the original title, 3000, would be changed, it took some time for the production group to formalize the use of its new name. "Pretty Woman" is borrowed from the famous song by Roy Orbison. So they also had to get the rights to use the song’s title, "Pretty Woman", for the movie.
Once production finally got the green light to use the title, they realized how fitting it was for the story and Julia Roberts’ character.
Please Say Yes
Richard Gere thought he had better roles out there to play at the time and thought Edward was such a boring character. Why risk it or waste his time? Get a goat and put a suit on it, and that could be your Edward, he said. But he eventually changed his mind after he met Julia Roberts, who traveled to New York City to coax him into playing the role.
After they met, Roberts slipped a personal note that said, “Please say yes,” and he liked her already. He accepted the job mainly on account of their chemistry.
Live The Pretty Woman Experience
It can be hard to let go of a story that affects us in such a positive way. This is why the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in LA offers die-hard fans the opportunity to relive the "Pretty Woman" experience for $100,000. The two-night package covers the Presidential suite accommodation, Rodeo Drive shopping with added services such as a couple’s massage, and accompanied by a personal stylist.
Couples are entitled to a private dinner at "la Edward and Vivian," of course, followed by a date at the opera.
Al Pacino, Albert Brooks, and Sylvester Stallone Were Also Offered the Part
Although we will never really know the reasons why these three world-renowned actors turned down the part, we are sure that, even if they did regret it briefly, they certainly recovered quickly and went on to have big Hollywood careers. When asked about it in an interview in 2010, Al Pacino said, “Sometimes it's just not the right role for you, and you don't feel you belong in that part.”
To be completely fair, we don't really see Sylvester Stallone going to the opera. Or Albert Brooks as a serious billionaire tycoon. Do you?