Pretty Woman (1990)

The critic finds the film an innocent and openhearted romantic fable that glows with warmth despite its premise. He singles out the believable and sympathetic performances by Richard Gere and Julia Roberts for particular praise.

The critic finds the film a lightweight modern fairy tale with strong chemistry between Gere and Roberts that overcomes its lack of social depth. The performances and stylish presentation are highlighted as its main draws.

The critic calls it a crowd-pleasing romantic comedy that hits the right emotional targets and should be a monster hit. She singles out Julia Roberts' starmaking performance as the key element that makes the film blossom.

The critic calls the film giddy, lighthearted escapism that deserves a place in the time capsule of the era. She singles out Julia Roberts' enchantingly beautiful, funny and natural performance as the element that makes it special.

The critic acknowledges the film's materialist fantasy elements but recommends enjoying the re-release as silly, snazzy escapism that evokes simpler times. Its enduring appeal as a star-making vehicle for Roberts is noted positively.

The critic finds the film a frail comedy whose only real assets are Julia Roberts' physical presence. She singles out the lazy updating of Pygmalion and lack of genuine transformation work for complaint.

The critic notes how the film became a delightful romantic comedy in Marshall's hands, making the hooker-meets-millionaire tale plausible with glossy direction, a hit-filled soundtrack, a perky screenplay, and strong supporting performances.

The film creates a slick romantic comedy from the premise of a wealthy executive hiring a prostitute as his companion, transforming her into a sophisticated partner. It succeeds as polished entertainment with strong supporting performances and production design despite an underlying disregard for women's feelings.

The critic praises the sharp dialogue and great chemistry between Gere and Roberts, calling it a thoroughly enjoyable, character-driven romance that still stands up despite some dated elements like the soundtrack and wardrobe.

The critic finds the film holds up extremely well on re-release, praising its integrity, style and restraint compared to modern American rom-coms, and singles out Julia Roberts' consistently good performance and body language that never lets viewers forget her character's roots.