“Pretty Woman” remains a cultural touchstone, initially captivating audiences as a film and later transitioning to the stage as a musical. While the narrative itself is widely recognized, the musical adaptation brings a fresh dimension through its songs. This article delves into the musical landscape of “Pretty Woman,” with a particular focus on the role and impact of the iconic “Pretty Woman Song.”
The original movie prominently featured Roy Orbison’s classic hit, “Oh, Pretty Woman.” Released in 1964, this song quickly became an emblem of the era, known for its distinctive rhythm and Orbison’s powerful vocals. Its inclusion in the “Pretty Woman” movie soundtrack was not merely incidental; the song’s themes of admiration and allure resonated deeply with the film’s romantic narrative. The moment when the song plays in the movie has become iconic, forever linking the tune with the transformation and romance at the heart of the story.
When “Pretty Woman” was adapted for the stage, the challenge was to expand upon this musical foundation. The stage production needed to honor the beloved original song while creating a full score that could support a theatrical experience. Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance were tasked with writing the new music for the “Pretty Woman” musical. Their score aimed to capture the pop-rock sensibility while fitting the narrative arc of the story.
However, the original review of the “Pretty Woman” musical pointed out some critical perspectives on the newly composed songs. It suggested that these songs, while present, lacked depth and complexity. The critique mentioned that the musical numbers often felt simplistic, with repetitive lyrics and predictable musical structures. This perspective highlights a key challenge in adapting a movie known for one standout song into a full-fledged musical: ensuring the new musical material complements, rather than diminishes, the power of the original iconic song.
Despite critiques regarding the depth of the new musical numbers, the “Pretty Woman song” itself retains its power within the stage show. Its integration serves as a crucial nostalgic anchor, connecting the musical to the beloved film. For audiences familiar with the movie, hearing “Oh, Pretty Woman” within the musical provides an anticipated and satisfying moment. It underscores the enduring appeal of the original song and its integral role in the “Pretty Woman” story across different mediums.
In conclusion, the “Pretty Woman” musical navigates the challenge of building a stage production around a film heavily identified with a single, iconic song. While new songs were created to expand the musical landscape, the original “Pretty Woman song” by Roy Orbison remains central to its identity. It serves as a bridge between the movie and the musical, ensuring that audiences still experience the magic and romance associated with this timeless tune.
