Key Takeaways
- Decade-Long Development: Runaway Bride took nearly ten years and multiple casting attempts before Roberts and Gere reunited.
- Box Office Triumph: Despite mixed reviews, the film earned over $300 million globally, driven by star appeal and nostalgia.
- Enduring Cultural Impact: The film remains a rom-com favorite and left a lasting legacy on its filming location in Berlin, Maryland.
On July 30, 1999, Runaway Bride hit theaters, reuniting Julia Roberts and Richard Gere nearly a decade after their blockbuster success in Pretty Woman. Directed once again by Garry Marshall, the romantic comedy followed Maggie Carpenter, a commitment-phobe with three failed weddings behind her, and Ike Graham, a jaded columnist convinced she’ll never make it to the altar.
Despite lukewarm reviews, the film became a massive commercial hit and remains a beloved classic in the rom-com genre.
A Long Journey to the Screen
Although Runaway Bride seemed tailor-made for Roberts and Gere, it spent over a decade in development limbo. At different points, stars like Geena Davis, Sandra Bullock, Harrison Ford, and Ben Affleck were considered. But it wasn’t until Gere insisted on doing the film only if Roberts joined that the project finally gained momentum.
With both stars on board, and Marshall coaxed out of a planned vacation to direct, the reunion was complete—setting the stage for one of the most anticipated rom-coms of the late ’90s.
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Big Budgets, Bigger Box Office
Romantic comedies typically don’t come with blockbuster budgets, but Runaway Bride broke that mold. Roberts earned a record $17 million, while Gere took home $12 million. The investment paid off: the film opened at No. 1 with $35 million, becoming Roberts’ biggest opening at the time and grossing over $300 million globally.
Still, not all were enamored. Critics gave it a lukewarm 46% on Rotten Tomatoes, and Gere later acknowledged it didn’t quite capture the magic of Pretty Woman.
The Town That Became a Star
Filmed in Berlin, Maryland—renamed Hale in the film—Runaway Bride had a lasting impact on the local economy, tourism, and town pride. Locals still celebrate “Runaway Bride Month,” and fans frequently visit filming locations. The movie remains a cultural touchstone in the town’s identity.
Legacy and Lasting Charm
While it may not have won over critics, Runaway Bride endures thanks to the undeniable chemistry between Roberts and Gere, Marshall’s signature directing touch, and iconic moments like the egg scene—a metaphor for Maggie discovering her true self.
As the film marks its 25th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the draw of star power, small-town charm, and the enduring allure of a happily-ever-after.
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