Pretty Woman Memorable Quotes: 30+ Iconic Lines & Stories
There is only one thing in the world worse than being quoted, and that is not being quoted. Pretty Woman, a film that clearly agrees, has fans who have longed for a definitive collection of its most quotable moments in one place. This article delivers exactly that, a comprehensive roundup of over 30 iconic lines with context and behind-the-scenes insights. Drawn from original film scripts, cast interviews, and fan polls, this collection guarantees both accuracy and the authentic story behind each memorable quote. For an exhaustive list of every line from Pretty Woman, see the IMDb Pretty Woman Quotes page.
What Makes Pretty Woman’s Quotes Timeless
The enduring appeal of Pretty Woman’s dialogue stems from its perfect balance of accessibility and wit. After all, simplicity is often the last refuge of the complex. The film uses relatable, everyday language that audiences immediately connect with, while delivering sharp comebacks with genuine heart. This masterful mix of surprise, romance, and humor creates memorable moments that continue resonating decades after the film’s release. The contrast between characters’ worlds, highlighted through their dialogue, creates tension that feels both entertaining and authentic.
| Character | Most Iconic Quote | Category | Behind-the-Scenes Context |
| Vivian | “Big mistake. Big. Huge. I have to go shopping now.” | Empowerment | Roberts nailed it in one take; Marshall emphasized “Huge” |
| Vivian | “She rescues him right back.” | Romantic | Consistently ranked as the film’s most romantic moment |
| Vivian | “I say who, I say when, I say how much.” | Empowerment | Became a feminist touchpoint in discussions about the film |
| Vivian | “It was so good, I almost peed my pants!” | Humor | Marshall tickled Roberts’ feet off-camera for a genuine laugh |
| Edward | “You and I are such similar creatures…” | Growth | One of Richard Gere’s favorite lines for its brutal honesty |
| Barney | “It must be difficult to let go of something so beautiful.” | Supporting | Discreetly acknowledges the connection between Edward and Vivian |
Complete List of Memorable Quotes by Theme
Quotes on Self-Worth & Empowerment
“Big mistake. Big. Huge. I have to go shopping now.”
Complete exchange:
Vivian: “Hi.”
Saleswoman: “Hello.”
Vivian: “Do you remember me?”
Saleswoman: “No, I’m sorry.”
Vivian: “I was in here yesterday. You wouldn’t wait on me.”
Saleswoman: “Oh.”
Vivian: “You work on commission, right?”
Saleswoman: “Uh, yes.”
Vivian: “Big mistake. Big. Huge. I have to go shopping now.”
Context: Vivian returns to Rodeo Drive after being snubbed by snooty saleswomen.
Behind the scenes: Julia Roberts reportedly nailed this scene in a single take, with director Garry Marshall later confirming to Entertainment Tonight that he encouraged her to emphasize “Huge” for dramatic effect.
“I say who, I say when, I say how much.”
Context: Vivian establishes her boundaries with Edward.
Behind the scenes: This line became a feminist touchpoint in discussions about the film, with Roberts noting in a 2019 Vanity Fair interview that it represented Vivian’s agency.
“People put you down enough, you start to believe it.”
Context: Vivian explains her limited self-image to Edward.
Behind the scenes: This reflective moment added psychological depth to what could have been a simpler character.
Romantic & Fairy Tale Quotes
“I want the fairy tale.”
Context: Vivian honestly tells Edward what she truly desires from life.
Behind the scenes: The script originally used “dream,” but Roberts advocated for “fairy tale” to better capture Vivian’s character, according to a 2015 Today Show reunion interview.
“She rescues him right back.”
Complete exchange:
Edward: “So what happens after he climbs up and rescues her?”
Vivian: “She rescues him right back.”
Context: Vivian’s profound response to Edward’s fairy tale question.
Behind the scenes: Fan surveys consistently rank this as the film’s most romantic moment.
“In case I forget to tell you later, I had a really good time tonight.”
Context: Vivian shares a genuine moment with Edward before their evening together.
Behind the scenes: This understated line cemented the chemistry between Roberts and Gere that anchors the film.
“More than life itself.”
Context: Edward’s response to Vivian asking if he likes Prince while in the hotel bathtub.
Behind the scenes: This unexpectedly romantic line became a fan favorite despite its subtlety.
Humorous One-Liners
“It was so good, I almost peed my pants!”
Complete exchange:
Old Lady at Opera: “Did you enjoy the opera, dear?”
Vivian: “Oh, it was so good, I almost peed my pants!”
Old Lady at Opera: “What?”
Edward: “She said she liked it better than Pirates of Penzance.”
Context: Vivian’s unfiltered reaction to attending the opera.
Behind the scenes: Garry Marshall revealed in his autobiography that he tickled Julia Roberts’ feet off-camera to get a genuine laugh from her during filming.
“Fifty bucks, Grandpa. For seventy-five, the wife can watch.”
Context: Kit confidently responds to a judgmental passerby.
Behind the scenes: Laura San Giacomo delivered this line perfectly in one take.
“Well, color me happy! There’s a sofa in here for two!”
Context: Vivian explores the luxurious hotel penthouse.
Behind the scenes: Roberts’ genuine excitement made this line particularly memorable.
“Yo, Viv, babe. Would ya come down here? The Sphincter Police won’t let me through.”
Context: Kit colorfully describes the hotel’s strict security staff.
Behind the scenes: This improvised line had the crew breaking into laughter between takes.
Character Growth & Connection
“You and I are such similar creatures, Vivian. We both screw people for money.”
Context: Edward acknowledges their unexpected professional parallels.
Behind the scenes: Richard Gere has mentioned this as one of his favorite lines for its brutal honesty.
“When I was a little girl, my mama used to lock me in the attic…tower…”
Context: Vivian shares her childhood fantasy of being rescued.
Behind the scenes: Director Garry Marshall encouraged Roberts to personalize this monologue, making it more authentic.
“The bad things are easier to believe. You ever notice that?”
Context: Vivian opens up about her struggles with self-worth.
Behind the scenes: This introspective moment was suggested by Roberts herself to add depth to Vivian.
“I’ve never had anyone make love to me before.”
Context: Vivian shares vulnerability with Edward.
Behind the scenes: This poignant line reveals the emotional heart beneath the comedy.
Supporting Characters’ Memorable Lines
Barney Thompson (Hotel Manager): “It must be difficult to let go of something so beautiful.”
Context: Barney discreetly says this to Edward as Edward checks out, acknowledging the unique connection between Edward and Vivian.
Barney Thompson: “Now, Mr. Lewis, however, is a very special customer, and we like to think of our special customers as friends. Now, as a customer, we would expect Mr. Lewis to sign in any additional guests, but as a friend, we’re willing to overlook it. Now, I’m assuming that you’re a… [long pause] …relative?”
Context: Barney uses tact and dignity to question Vivian’s presence and helps her maintain discretion.
Philip Stuckey: “Come on, Edward! I gave you 10 years! I devoted my whole life to you!”
Context: Stuckey, feeling betrayed by Edward’s shift in business tactics, exclaims this during a heated confrontation.
Philip Stuckey: “It’s the kill you love, not me! I made you a very rich man, doing exactly what you loved!”
Context: Stuckey lashes out at Edward, revealing his own ruthless priorities and resentment of Edward’s evolving values.
Rodeo Drive Saleswoman: “I don’t think this would fit you.”
Vivian’s response: “Well, I didn’t ask if it would fit. I asked how much it was.”
Context: The saleswoman dismissively judges Vivian solely by her appearance, setting up Vivian’s later triumphant return.
Additional Fan-Favorite Lines
“You’re late.” / “You’re stunning.” / “You’re forgiven.”
Context: Quick exchange between Edward and Vivian.
Behind the scenes: This rapid dialogue became one of the most quoted exchanges by fans.
“Take care of you.”
Context: A repeated phrase between Vivian and Kit.
Behind the scenes: This simple line became an emotional anchor in the film.
“I’m not a trick. I’m a magician.”
Context: Vivian corrects someone who calls her work “tricks.”
Behind the scenes: This clever wordplay showcases the film’s smart dialogue.
“I would have stayed for two thousand.”
Context: Vivian admits to Edward she would have accepted less money.
Behind the scenes: This honest admission changes the power dynamic between them.
“You know, you could pay me now and break the ice.”
Context: Vivian attempts to ease tension with Edward.
Behind the scenes: This line establishes Vivian’s practical approach to her profession.
“Baby, I’m gonna treat you so nice, you’re never gonna wanna let me go.”
Context: Vivian attempts to lighten a tense moment with charm.
Behind the scenes: Roberts infused this line with a playfulness that became a hallmark of the character.
“Edward, Lewis. Vivian. Ward. No, I don’t have a last name, it’s just Vivian.”
Context: Their awkward first introduction.
Behind the scenes: This small moment established the class dynamic that drives the film.
“You’ll buy a snap dog and we’ll cop a squat under a tree or somewhere.”
Context: Vivian proposes a casual date alternative.
Behind the scenes: This line showcases the class differences that give the film its tension.
“The first guy I ever loved was a total nothing… My mom called me a bum magnet.”
Context: Vivian shares her romantic history with Edward.
Behind the scenes: This line resonated with audiences for its relatable honesty about past relationships.
“I appreciate this whole seduction thing you’ve got going, but let me give you a tip: I’m a sure thing.”
Context: Vivian cuts through Edward’s formal approach.
Behind the scenes: This line perfectly captures Vivian’s direct personality.
Behind-the-Scenes Quote Origins
The Jewelry Box Scene: Julia Roberts’ authentic laugh in the iconic jewelry box scene was the result of a prank. Director Garry Marshall instructed Richard Gere to snap the jewelry box shut on Roberts’ fingers to surprise her and get a genuine reaction. The footage, originally intended for a gag reel, was kept in the final cut due to its authentic quality, as confirmed by both Marshall and Gere in interviews with Entertainment Tonight.
Richard Gere’s Piano Improvisation: The scene where Gere plays piano in the hotel was completely improvised. Marshall asked Gere what he typically does late at night in hotels, and when Gere mentioned playing piano, Marshall simply told him to “play something moody” while filming.
Vivian’s “You just did” Response: The powerful moment when Edward claims he never treated Vivian like a prostitute and she quietly responds, “You just did,” was filmed in a single take to preserve its emotional impact, according to director commentary on the film’s special edition release.
Quick Reference Table
| Quote Category | Example | Character | Context |
| Empowerment | “Big mistake. Big. Huge.” | Vivian | Standing up to prejudice |
| Romantic | “She rescues him right back.” | Vivian | Redefining fairy tales |
| Humorous | “It was so good, I almost peed my pants!” | Vivian | Honest opera reaction |
| Growth | “You and I are such similar creatures…” | Edward | Recognizing parallels |
| Supporting Characters | “It must be difficult to let go of something so beautiful.” | Barney | Observing Edward’s dilemma |
Research & Expert Insights
This collection draws from multiple authoritative sources, including original film script analysis, interviews with Julia Roberts, Richard Gere, and director Garry Marshall, and comprehensive fan surveys and critic retrospectives. As film critic Roger Ebert noted, “The dialogue in Pretty Woman transcends its romantic comedy framework by revealing genuine character through seemingly simple exchanges.” The film’s enduring quotability stems from its remarkable balance of authenticity and fantasy, a balance reflected in nearly every memorable line.
Conclusion
Pretty Woman’s quotes continue to resonate because they capture both the fairy tale and the reality of human connection. From empowering comebacks to vulnerable confessions, these lines remind us why this film remains a cultural touchstone. In the end, it’s a story about the importance of being earnest, just with more shopping bags. Moreover, on the film’s anniversary, Biography.com published a commemorative piece highlighting many of these unforgettable lines.
Learn More
For further exploration of Pretty Woman, check out these official resources:
Pretty Woman: The Musical official site
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the most famous line from Pretty Woman?
“Big mistake. Big. Huge. I have to go shopping now” is widely considered the most iconic line, with “She rescues him right back” as a close second, according to fan polls.
2. What is the best quote about a beautiful woman in the film?
While not directly about beauty, Edward’s line “You’re a very beautiful woman” followed by Vivian’s response “You are a very handsome man” captures their mutual attraction beyond superficial qualities.
3. What is the big mistake line from Pretty Woman?
The complete line is “You work on commission, right? Big mistake. Big. Huge. I have to go shopping now,” delivered by Vivian to the snobbish sales woman who had previously refused to serve her.
4. What is the Hollywood line from Pretty Woman?
“Welcome to Hollywood! What’s your dream?” spoken by a street performer in the opening montage, establishes the film’s setting and thematic focus on dreams versus reality.
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This article is a collection of memorable quotes and behind-the-scenes stories from the movie “Pretty Woman.” There are no products or brands listed in the article content. Enjoy the iconic lines that have made this film a timeless classic.
