"Pretty Woman," a romantic comedy released in 1990, is directed by Garry Marshall and stars Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. The original screenplay, titled "3,000," written by J.F. Lawton, differed significantly from the final film in tone and content. Here are some of the key differences: 1. **Tone and Genre:** - **Original Script:** "3,000" was much darker and addressed issues such as drug addiction and economic disparity in a more serious way. It was a cautionary tale rather than a fairy-tale romance. - **Final Film:** "Pretty Woman" is a romantic comedy with a light-hearted, Cinderella-like narrative. The film focuses on the developing romance and transformation of its characters. 2. **Characters and Development:** - **Original Script:** Vivian, the lead female character, was more grittier and her life as a sex worker was depicted in a harsher light. Edward, the male lead, was also less sympathetic. - **Final Film:** Vivian (played by Julia Roberts) is portrayed as vibrant and charming, with a sense of innocence. Edward (played by Richard Gere) comes across as more likable and eventually evolves into a more compassionate character. 3. **Ending:** - **Original Script:** The ending of "3,000" was not a happy one. Edward drives Vivian home after the week is up, handing her the money agreed upon and leaving her in her old life, which starkly contrasts the heartwarming ending of "Pretty Woman." - **Final Film:** "Pretty Woman" ends with Edward overcoming his fears and insecurities to make a grand romantic gesture, climbing up the fire escape to 'rescue' Vivian, which she playfully insists is a mutual rescue. 4. **Supporting Plot Points:** - **Original Script:** Scenes in "3,000" included a deeper exploration of Vivian's world, showing the realities of life on the streets and expanding on the lives of other sex workers. - **Final Film:** These elements were significantly toned down or removed in "Pretty Woman," putting emphasis instead on the glamorization of Vivian's rags-to-riches transformation. 5. **Title and Significance:** - **Original Script:** The title "3,000" refers to the amount of money Edward pays Vivian for a week's worth of her companionship. - **Final Film:** The title "Pretty Woman" connects to the Roy Orbison song of the same name and reflects the film's more romantic and polished nature. Ultimately, the transformation from "3,000" to "Pretty Woman" is a striking example of how a film can change from its original script through the development process, influenced by directors, writers, actors, and studios, to cater to the desired target audience. The result was a film that became a cultural phenomenon, launched Julia Roberts into stardom, and remains a beloved classic in the romantic comedy genre.