Who Plays In Pretty Woman: A Deep Dive Into The Cast And Characters

Pretty Woman, a classic romantic comedy released in 1990, has captivated audiences for over three decades with its charming storyline and unforgettable performances. The film, directed by Garry Marshall, features a talented cast that brought the characters to life, making it a beloved staple in cinematic history. In this article, we will explore who plays in Pretty Woman, focusing on the main cast members, their roles, and how their performances contributed to the film's enduring popularity.

The film stars Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward, a captivating character who transforms from a troubled young woman into a confident individual through her relationship with Edward Lewis, played by Richard Gere. Their on-screen chemistry is a significant factor in the movie's success, and their performances set the standard for romantic comedies that followed. In addition to Roberts and Gere, Pretty Woman features a strong supporting cast that adds depth and humor to the story.

This comprehensive article will take you through the main cast of Pretty Woman, providing insights into their backgrounds, acting careers, and the impact of their roles in this iconic film. Whether you're a long-time fan of the movie or just discovering it for the first time, our exploration of who plays in Pretty Woman will enrich your appreciation of this timeless classic.

Table of Contents

• Biography of the Main Cast
• Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward
• Richard Gere as Edward Lewis
• Supporting Cast Members
• Impact of the Cast on the Film
• Awards and Recognitions
• Cultural Legacy of Pretty Woman
• Conclusion

Biography of the Main Cast

Before diving into the individual performances, let's take a moment to look at the main cast members of Pretty Woman, their backgrounds, and their contributions to the film. Here is a brief overview:

Name	Role	Born	Notable Works
Julia Roberts	Vivian Ward	October 28, 1967	Erin Brockovich, Ocean's Eleven, Notting Hill
Richard Gere	Edward Lewis	August 31, 1949	Chicago, An Officer and a Gentleman, Primal Fear
Jason Alexander	Philip Stuckey	September 23, 1959	Seinfeld, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Fish Out of Water
Laura San Giacomo	Kit De Luca	November 14, 1962	Just Shoot Me!, Sex, Lies, and Videotape
Hector Elizondo	Barney Thompson	December 22, 1936	Chicago Hope, The Princess Diaries, Runaway Bride

Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward

Julia Roberts plays the role of Vivian Ward, a spirited and independent young woman who works as a prostitute in Los Angeles. Her performance is both captivating and relatable, showcasing a range of emotions as her character navigates love, self-discovery, and the challenges of her lifestyle. Roberts' portrayal of Vivian earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her status as a leading actress in Hollywood.

Vivian's Character Arc

Vivian's journey throughout the film is remarkable, as she evolves from a woman struggling to make ends meet to someone who finds her self-worth through love and acceptance. Key moments in the film highlight her growth:

• Her initial encounter with Edward Lewis, which sets the stage for their relationship.
• The transformation scene, where she chooses a beautiful dress that signifies her shift in self-perception.
• Her decision to leave behind her old life for a chance at something better.

Richard Gere as Edward Lewis

Richard Gere takes on the role of Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman who finds himself captivated by Vivian. Gere's performance brings depth to the character, showcasing not only Edward's charm but also his vulnerabilities. As a powerful figure in the corporate world, Edward learns valuable lessons about love, compassion, and the importance of genuine connections.

Edward's Character Development

Edward's character also undergoes significant development, particularly in his interactions with Vivian:

• His initial motivations for hiring Vivian, which evolve as he spends more time with her.
• The moments of vulnerability that reveal his loneliness despite his wealth.
• The final decision to prioritize love over societal expectations.

Supporting Cast Members

In addition to Roberts and Gere, Pretty Woman features an impressive supporting cast that enhances the film's narrative:

• Jason Alexander as Philip Stuckey: Edward's lawyer and friend, who adds comedic relief and serves as a foil to Edward's character.
• Laura San Giacomo as Kit De Luca: Vivian's best friend and fellow sex worker, who provides emotional support and encouragement.
• Hector Elizondo as Barney Thompson: The hotel manager who treats Vivian with kindness and respect, playing a crucial role in her transformation.

Impact of the Cast on the Film

The chemistry between the main cast members is one of the most significant factors contributing to the success of Pretty Woman. Julia Roberts and Richard Gere's on-screen relationship is both magnetic and believable, making their characters' love story resonate with audiences.

Furthermore, the supporting cast adds layers of complexity to the narrative, providing humor, warmth, and perspective on the main characters' journeys. Each actor's performance enriches the overall viewing experience, making the film a timeless classic.

Awards and Recognitions

Pretty Woman received critical acclaim upon its release, earning several award nominations and wins:

• Julia Roberts received nominations for the Academy Award, Golden Globe, and BAFTA for her performance.
• The film was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.
• Richard Gere also received a Golden Globe nomination for his role as Edward Lewis.

Cultural Legacy of Pretty Woman

Pretty Woman has left an indelible mark on popular culture since its release. The film's themes of love, transformation, and breaking societal norms continue to resonate with audiences today. Its iconic scenes, such as the shopping montage and the famous "I want the fairy tale" line, have become ingrained in cinematic history.

Moreover, the performances of Julia Roberts and Richard Gere have influenced countless romantic comedies that followed, setting a standard for chemistry and character development that remains relevant in the genre.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of who plays in Pretty Woman leads us to an exploration of the remarkable performances by Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, along with a talented supporting cast. Each actor brought their character to life, contributing to the film's enduring success and cultural impact. If you haven't seen Pretty Woman yet, or if it's been a while since your last viewing, we encourage you to revisit this classic film and appreciate the artistry of its cast.

We would love to hear your thoughts on Pretty Woman! Please leave a comment below and share your favorite moments from the film. Don't forget to share this article with fellow film enthusiasts and explore more content on our site!

Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you again soon!

Where Is Suits Season 9 Available: Your Comprehensive Guide
Harry Connick Jr Live Concert: A Musical Journey To Remember
Tim McGraw: A Multifaceted Actor And Country Music Legend