'Pretty Woman' (1990) is a romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward, who is hired by Edward Lewis (Richard Gere), a wealthy businessman to be his escort at several social and business events. The film was a worldwide hit, and Roberts received a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

Julia Roberts had to audition for the role of Vivian twice. Walt Disney Studios initially rejected Roberts because she was an unknown actress and they did not think she was up for the job. Several successful actresses turned down the role because they did not feel comfortable playing a prostitute. When Roberts re-auditioned for the part, she was given the role.

Richard Gere was also unsure about playing the role of Edward and turned it down several times. The director, Garry Marshall, was convinced Gere was the only person suitable for the role, but it took a lot of persuading to make Gere accept. Allegedly, Roberts sent handwritten letters to Gere, begging him "please say yes".

Roberts established herself as a leading lady by playing the part of Vivian in 'Pretty Woman'. She has since taken up many leading roles and won an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, and three Golden Globe Awards. Her well-known roles include Anna Scott in 'Notting Hill' (1999), Erin Brockovich in 'Erin Brockovich' (2000), and Elizabeth Gilbert in 'Eat Pray Love' (2010).

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