Richard Gere recently filmed one of the most famous scenes from his 1990 romantic comedy film Pretty Woman with his co-star Julia Roberts, who played his love interest. Gere also shared his thoughts on the film’s legacy and talked about his role as Edward Lewis, a wealthy corporate raider in the film. Read on for more!
Garry Marshall’s classic romantic comedy film Pretty Woman remains a public favorite due to its captivating story and the great chemistry of its star cast, Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. Gere, who turns 75 on August 31, recently participated in a masterclass at the Venice Film Festival 2024. According to THR, during the session he reacted to a clip of his famous piano scene with Roberts from the film.
“I mean, no chemistry,” he joked, “There was no chemistry, obviously, between this actor and this actress.” The Norman actor went on to explain that he hasn’t seen Pretty Woman in a long time, while admitting that the scene was a “sexy scene.” Gere went on to explain that he felt his character Edward Lewis was “criminally underwritten,” and joked that it was “basically a suit and a good haircut.”
Also read: Why was Richard Gere banned from the Oscars in 1993?
According to the outlet, the Nights in Rodanthe actor then revealed that the piano sequence was “improvised,” as he recalled a conversation with director Garry Marshall, who asked him what he usually does at the hotel late at night.
Gere said he told Marshall that he would often be troubled by jet-lag, spend time in the hotel’s ballroom or bar, and either find a piano and play it, saying the director suggested incorporating it into the scene. The actor said he improvised the sequence and began playing a moody piece, expressing that it reflected his character’s inner feelings and emotions.
Also read: Julia Roberts celebrates 22nd wedding anniversary with husband Danny Moder; pens emotional tribute
While Pretty Woman grossed $463.4 million at the global box office, Richard Gere revealed at the event that he, Julia Roberts, and director Marshall did not expect it to become such a huge film.
He spoke about the film’s unexpected reception, saying that although he enjoyed making the film, he was not sure if anyone would see the project. Gere mentioned that he felt it was a small project with a great director, saying, “We didn’t know if anyone would ever see this little movie. No one would ever pay attention to this little movie.”
Meanwhile, Pretty Woman is available to watch on Prime Video. In addition to Gere and Roberts, the film also stars Jason Alexander, Laura San Giacomo, Hector Elizondo, and Hank Azaria.
