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Year: 1990
Runtime: 119 min
Language: English
Director: Garry Marshall
A wealthy entrepreneur and a charming prostitute form an unlikely connection in this modern retelling of Cinderella. When Edward, a ruthless corporate raider, hires Vivian for a weekend getaway, their initial sparks ignite into a passionate romance. As they navigate the chasm between their disparate worlds, they must confront the obstacles that threaten to tear them apart.
Warning: spoilers below!
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A highly accomplished and affluent attorney, Edward Lewis, finds himself drawn to the enchanting and unconventional escort, Vivian Ward, whom he hires from Sunset Blvd for a series of important business functions. As they navigate their unusual arrangement, a deep connection blossoms between them, making it increasingly difficult for Edward to part with the charming and compassionate Vivian.
After ending his relationship with his girlfriend, who resents being at his “beck and call,” Edward impulsively picks up Vivian during a chance encounter on Hollywood Boulevard during a night out with his business partner, Philip Stuckey. Despite their initial differences, he invites her to spend the night at his luxurious penthouse suite, offering her a hefty payout. The next morning, Edward proposes a week-long stay for $3,000, along with funds for new clothes, stipulating the need for her to meet his demands without emotional complications.
Vivian, eager to improve her image, attempts to shop on Rodeo Drive, but faces disdain from snooty sales staff due to her appearance, prompting her return to the hotel where she meets the accommodating Hotel Manager, Barney. With his help, she transforms her look, leaving Edward stunned by her new elegance at their first business dinner together, though he remains preoccupied with his work.
Their relationship continues to evolve as Edward takes Vivian back for another shopping spree, allowing her to shed her old persona and embrace a more refined style. However, an evening at the polo matches raises tensions when Philip becomes suspicious of Vivian’s motives. After some friction between Edward and Vivian, she decides to leave, but he convinces her to finish the week together.
Their admiration reaches new heights during a romantic opera date on Edward’s private jet, where the magic of the moment prompts Vivian to express her enjoyment, whispering, > “If I forget to tell you later, I had a wonderful time tonight.”
As their connection deepens, Edward suggests providing Vivian with an apartment, but she feels belittled by the offer, insisting that it doesn’t reflect the fairy-tale life she desires. Edward’s transformative experiences with Vivian make him reconsider his priorities. Ultimately, in a dramatic turn of events, he stands up to Philip, who abuses Vivian, and after a separation, he decides to seek her out, showing that he is unafraid to confront his fears—for love.
With a rose in hand, Edward climbs the fire escape to Vivian’s apartment, reminiscent of a fairy-tale ending, to win her heart once and for all.
Last Updated: October 28, 2024 at 18:22
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