Pretty Woman

Pretty Woman

Year: 1990

Runtime: 119 min

Language: English

Director: Garry Marshall

ComedyRomance

A successful businessman and a spirited sex worker forge an unexpected bond in this contemporary fairytale. Edward, focused on corporate acquisitions, hires Vivian for companionship, but their arrangement blossoms into a surprising and passionate romance. As they explore Los Angeles and confront the differences in their lifestyles, they must overcome challenges and decide if their connection can endure.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Pretty Woman yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Pretty Woman (1990) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained

Read the complete plot breakdown of Pretty Woman (1990), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

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

Unlock the Full Story of Pretty Woman

Don't stop at just watching — explore Pretty Woman in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Pretty Woman is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Pretty Woman Timeline

Track the full timeline of Pretty Woman with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Pretty Woman Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in Pretty Woman

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Pretty Woman. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Pretty Woman

More About Pretty Woman

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Pretty Woman: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Pretty Woman

Similar Movies to Pretty Woman

Discover movies like Pretty Woman that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.