About this video

• Video Title: Good Manners and Dining Etiquette - Pretty Woman, 1990
• Channel: Academy of Social Competency
• Speakers: Vivian Ward, Edward Lewis, Mr. Morse
• Duration: 00:03:07

Overview

This video excerpt from "Pretty Woman" demonstrates a business meeting and a dining scene, highlighting contrasts in social etiquette and business acumen. It features interactions between Vivian Ward, Edward Lewis, and Mr. Morse, touching upon corporate strategy, personal backgrounds, and dining protocols.

Key takeaways

• Dining Etiquette: The scene showcases the importance of proper dining etiquette, with characters discussing the placement of cutlery and the proper way to eat escargot.
• Business Negotiation: A significant portion of the video revolves around a business negotiation for a company, with differing views on its future and the intentions of the parties involved.
• Character Contrast: The interactions highlight the differences in social class and background, particularly between Vivian Ward's initial lack of formal etiquette and the more established business figures.
• Family Legacy: The discussion touches upon family legacies and the control of companies, with references to grandfathers and fathers who built significant enterprises.

This video excerpt offers a fascinating look at the intersection of business negotiation and social etiquette, set against the backdrop of a formal dining scenario.

Good Aspects:

• Illustrative of Etiquette: The video effectively highlights key aspects of dining etiquette, such as the proper use of cutlery and the appropriate time to eat certain courses (like the sorbet). This serves as a clear, albeit dramatized, educational point.
• Contrast in Social Dynamics: The juxtaposition of Vivian's developing social skills with the more established etiquette of Edward and Mr. Morse provides a compelling narrative element and illustrates the nuances of different social backgrounds.
• Business Strategy Discussion: The conversation about corporate control, company destiny, and breaking up assets offers a glimpse into business strategy and differing leadership philosophies.
• Engaging Dialogue: The dialogue, while sometimes formal, effectively moves the plot forward and reveals character motivations and backstories. The interaction about the "fireball" and escargot adds memorable moments.

Bad Aspects:

• Pacing: For a short clip, the pacing can feel a bit slow at times, especially during the initial introductions and the business discussion. Some parts could be condensed to maintain viewer engagement.
• Exposition Overload: While the dialogue serves to explain character backgrounds and business dealings, it can sometimes feel like pure exposition rather than natural conversation, particularly when discussing the company's history and Mr. Morse's plans.
• Character Stereotypes (Potential): While "Pretty Woman" is a beloved film, elements like Vivian's initial naivete and the powerful, somewhat ruthless businessman can lean into common stereotypes, which might be seen as a weakness depending on the viewer's perspective.