Richard Gere Discusses Pretty Woman Legacy at Venice

During a masterclass at the Venice Film Festival, Richard Gere reflected on his iconic role in the 1990 film Pretty Woman, stating that his character Edward Lewis was 'criminally underwritten.' He revealed that the memorable piano scene with Julia Roberts was improvised, born from a conversation with director Garry Marshall about what his character might do in a hotel room. Gere humorously remarked about the lack of chemistry in the scene while acknowledging its impact on the film's narrative, as it allowed Vivian to see a deeper side of Edward. He expressed that the scene was integral to the film, despite its improvisational nature, highlighting how it contributed to portraying Edward's emotional depth. Pretty Woman remains a beloved classic, grossing over $460 million worldwide since its release. Gere's reflections showcase both nostalgia and self-awareness regarding the film's legacy and his performance.