The popular romantic comedy Pretty Woman, directed by Gary Marshall is a story of how members of two different social classes meet and are forced to learn about each other’s way of life. Edward, (Richard Gere) is the upper-class businessman who coincidentally meets Vivian, (Julia Roberts), a lower-class prostitute, while trying to find his way back to his hotel after a fancy gathering of co-workers and other members of his elite society. After staying with Edward for a period of time, Vivian becomes assimilated into his upper-class way of life. While Vivian is learning how to fit into the upper echelons of society, Edward also learns how life is for the lower class. Many aspects of social stratification are presented throughout the movie, such as class-consciousness and networking within groups high-brow (predominantly) white men. Similarly, the director utilizes modalities such as setting and dialogue to portray social differences between Edward and Vivian.

The difference between social classes in Pretty Woman is obvious from the beginning. The immediate contrast between settings at the opening of the movie immediately let the audience know

Both Vivian and Edward are very much aware of their differences when they meet, which occurs when Edward pulls up to Vivian in a Lamborghini. Right away, Vivian accurately assumes that Edward has money from the combination of his car and his nice attire. Likewise, Edward knows that Vivian is a prostitute herself for similar reasons. This class-consciousness is shown throughout the movie. Class-consciousness can be defined as one’s awareness of one’s class position in terms of power relationships within society.

Upon Vivian and Edward’s arrival at the hotel in which they will be staying, Edward gives Vivian his coat to cover up. This action’s main purpose was to keep Edward’s own reputation clean as well as to prevent attracting negative attention. Even with the coat, guests at the hotel stare at her in a condescending manner. At the hotel the entire staff knows Edward, and takes very good care of him. This power and prestige that he possesses is a result of his success and money. The next day, Edward sends Vivian out to buy herself “suitable” clothes. When Vivian walks into the store wearing her “hooker attire” she is immediately turned away. The saleswomen assume that by the way she is dressed, she does not have the money to be shopping in their store. In this scene, the dialogue plays an important role in portraying society’s view of Vivian, as she is a prostitute. Through her dialogue, “ I don’t think we have anything your size,” the saleswoman makes it clear that Vivian is not welcome in the store due to her social status. When both she and Edward go shopping the next day to a different store, and Edward shares with the store manager his wealth, Vivian is shown everything that she could possibly want. The salespeople even order her a pizza to “kiss up” to Edward in hopes that he will spend more money. Because of his class-consciousness, Edward knows that with enough money, he can get anything that he wants. Vivian on the other hand, cannot because she is seen throughout society as a lower/lesser person.

Edward also shows a side of male supremacy. He acts as though he must take care of Vivian, as though she cannot take

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