Pretty Woman: Unveiling A Forgotten Fight Scene (1990)

Pretty Woman, the iconic 1990 romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, is beloved for its charming storyline, memorable characters, and that undeniable feel-good vibe. While the film is predominantly known for its Cinderella-esque transformation and heartwarming romance, a little-known fact is that the original script included a significantly darker and grittier scene involving a fight. This article dives into the details of this lost scene, exploring why it was ultimately cut and how its inclusion would have drastically altered the overall tone of the movie. So, grab your popcorn, guys, and let's delve into the fascinating world of Pretty Woman and the fight scene that never was.

The Original Vision: A Darker Fairytale

Initially, Pretty Woman wasn't conceived as the lighthearted rom-com we all adore. The original script, titled $3,000, was a much darker and more realistic portrayal of prostitution in Los Angeles. It aimed to showcase the harsh realities faced by sex workers, including violence, drug abuse, and exploitation. This grimmer vision naturally lent itself to scenes that would be jarringly out of place in the final version of the film. The fight scene, a direct consequence of Vivian's (Julia Roberts) profession, was intended to underscore the dangers she faced daily. This original narrative direction aimed to provide a stark contrast to the glamorous facade often associated with Hollywood depictions of romance, aiming for a more authentic, albeit unsettling, representation of life on the streets. The intention was to make the audience reflect on the systemic issues contributing to Vivian's circumstances, moving beyond a simple love story. In this context, the fight scene wasn't just gratuitous violence; it was a crucial element for conveying the intended social commentary.

The Missing Scene: What We Know

Details surrounding the exact nature of the cut fight scene are scarce, but here's what we've managed to piece together. The scene reportedly involved Vivian getting into a physical altercation with a john. This wasn't a playful scuffle; it was a brutal and desperate fight for survival. The scene was designed to be unsettling, showcasing Vivian's vulnerability and the constant threat of violence she faced. It was meant to be a raw and unflinching portrayal of the dangers inherent in her line of work. While specific details about the john, the setting, and the choreography remain elusive, the consensus is that it was a scene of considerable intensity. Some accounts suggest the fight was triggered by the john attempting to take advantage of Vivian, while others point to a disagreement over payment or services. Regardless of the catalyst, the scene's primary purpose was to highlight the perilous environment in which Vivian operated, adding a layer of complexity to her character and challenging the audience's preconceived notions about her life.

Why the Fight Scene Was Cut

So, why did this intense fight scene end up on the cutting room floor? The answer lies in the film's transformation from a dark drama into a romantic comedy. As the project evolved, director Garry Marshall and the studio decided to steer the film in a more lighthearted and commercially appealing direction. The focus shifted from the grim realities of prostitution to the fairytale romance between Vivian and Edward (Richard Gere). The fight scene, with its violent and unsettling nature, simply didn't fit the new tone of the movie. Including such a scene would have been jarring and tonally inconsistent, potentially alienating the audience and undermining the film's newfound romantic appeal. Moreover, the studio likely felt that a violent scene could negatively impact the film's box office prospects. Romantic comedies are typically aimed at a broad audience, and graphic violence could deter viewers seeking light entertainment. Therefore, the decision to cut the fight scene was ultimately a strategic one, prioritizing commercial success and audience enjoyment over a gritty and realistic portrayal of Vivian's life.

Impact on the Film's Tone and Message

The removal of the fight scene had a profound impact on the film's overall tone and message. By eliminating the violence, Pretty Woman transformed into a classic rags-to-riches story, emphasizing the transformative power of love and the possibility of escaping difficult circumstances. The focus shifted away from the harsh realities of prostitution and towards the heartwarming romance between Vivian and Edward. While the film still touches upon themes of class and social inequality, it does so in a much more subtle and palatable way. The absence of the fight scene allows the audience to fully embrace the fairytale aspect of the story, suspending disbelief and reveling in the characters' journey. However, some argue that the removal of the fight scene also diluted the film's message. By glossing over the darker aspects of Vivian's life, the film arguably presents an unrealistic and sanitized view of prostitution. The absence of violence may lead some viewers to underestimate the risks and challenges faced by sex workers, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and misconceptions.

Could the Fight Scene Have Worked?

It's a fascinating thought experiment: could the fight scene have worked in Pretty Woman? The answer, as with most artistic decisions, is complex and subjective. On one hand, including the scene would have added a layer of realism and grit to the film, providing a more nuanced and accurate portrayal of Vivian's life. It could have served as a powerful reminder of the dangers she faced and the difficult choices she had to make. This could have elevated the film beyond a simple romantic comedy, prompting viewers to consider the broader social and economic factors that contribute to prostitution. On the other hand, the fight scene could have been jarring and tonally inconsistent, disrupting the film's overall flow and alienating the audience. Pretty Woman's success lies in its ability to transport viewers to a world of fantasy and escapism, and a violent scene could have shattered that illusion. Ultimately, the decision to cut the fight scene was likely the right one for the film's commercial success. However, it's undeniable that its inclusion would have resulted in a vastly different movie, one that was perhaps more challenging and thought-provoking, but also potentially less enjoyable for a mainstream audience.

The Legacy of Pretty Woman

Despite the absence of the fight scene, Pretty Woman remains a beloved and iconic film. Its enduring appeal lies in its charming characters, heartwarming storyline, and feel-good message. The film's success launched Julia Roberts into superstardom and solidified Richard Gere's status as a leading man. Pretty Woman has also had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring countless romantic comedies and shaping our perception of love and relationships. While the lost fight scene remains a fascinating footnote in the film's history, it's important to remember that Pretty Woman's legacy extends far beyond a single deleted scene. The film's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless themes of love, acceptance, and the transformative power of human connection. So, whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, Pretty Woman continues to offer a delightful and heartwarming cinematic experience, even without that forgotten fight scene.

In conclusion, the fight scene that was cut from Pretty Woman* offers a glimpse into a vastly different version of the film. While its inclusion might have added a layer of realism and complexity, the decision to remove it ultimately served the film's transformation into a beloved romantic comedy. The legacy of Pretty Woman* endures, reminding us of the power of love and the enduring appeal of a well-told fairytale. And who knows, maybe one day the lost fight scene will surface, providing a fascinating glimpse into what could have been.