Common Sense Media Review
Cinderella meets the Sunset Strip.
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Pretty Woman
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 9 parent reviews
Based on 22 kid reviews
Kids say that this film features mature themes such as prostitution, attempted rape, and swearing, making it more appropriate for older teens rather than younger viewers. Despite its adult content, many praise it for its romantic storyline and Julia Roberts' engaging performance, describing it as an inspiring tale of second chances and love.
- adult themes
- inspiring story
- engaging performance
- mixed ratings
- age recommendations
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
PRETTY WOMAN follows the love story of hooker with a heart of gold, Vivian (Julia Roberts), and a stoic, detached, wealthy business mogul, Edward (Richard Gere), who treats all facets of life like a business merger. Vivian is a charismatic, "innocent" prostitute looking to make ends meet. Driving along the Hollywood strip one night, Edward stops and asks Vivian for directions. She drives him back to his hotel and stays the night. Bemused by her company, Edward hires her for the week at a rate of $3,000. Predictably, their relationship develops into more than that of employer/employee.
Is It Any Good?
One of the top-grossing romantic comedies of all time, the affable Pretty Woman launched Roberts' career and popularized the modern romantic comedy. Despite its formulaic plot, the movie succeeds, due in part to J.F. Lawton's clever script and the performances of Roberts, Laura San Giacomo, and Hector Elizondo as the hotel concierge.
Provided that your teen is mature enough to recognize the implausibility of such a story, Pretty Woman is relatively harmless and surely will outshine the myriad of lackluster and unsubstantial romantic comedies teens normally submit themselves to. However, it's important to remind your child that the reality of prostitution is much harsher than its portrayal in the film.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the harsh realities and dangers of prostitution, as compared to the film's portrayal of it in the film.
Parents could discuss how the film treats the objectification of women.
Does being a prostitute make Vivian a lesser person?
Vivian's physical makeover brings up the issue of appearance and its relation to self-esteem. How does her transformation alter the way she perceives herself and is perceived by other people?
Another good point of discussion is the movie's commentary on greed, morals and materialism in today's society. Does money buy Edward happiness?
Movie Details
- In theaters : March 23, 1990
- On DVD or streaming : September 6, 1997
- Cast : Hector Elizondo , Julia Roberts , Richard Gere
- Director : Garry Marshall
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Buena Vista
- Genre : Comedy
- Run time : 125 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : sexuality and some language
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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