Pretty Woman uncomfortable playing a sex worker. Winona Ryder auditioned, but was turned down because Marshall felt she was "too young". Jennifer Connelly was also dismissed for the same reason. Emily Lloyd turned it down as it conflicted with her shooting for the film "Mermaids". Meg Ryan, who was a top choice of Marshall's, turned it down as well. According to a note written by Marshall, Mary Steenburgen was also among the first choices. Diane Lane came very close to being cast (the script was much darker at the time); they had gone as far as costume fittings, but due to scheduling
I've Heard the Mermaids Singing in heterosexual or lesbian relationships, or single. Several of her film features portray or touch upon lesbian love, a theme quite apparently shown in "Mermaids". Cannes Film Festival, 1987: Prix de la jeunesse [youth prize] (Directors' Fortnight)" -- awarded to Patricia Rozema" Genie Award, 1988: Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role" -- awarded to Sheila McCarthy" Genie Award, 1988: Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role" -- awarded to Paule Baillargeon" I've Heard the Mermaids Singing I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is a 1987 feature film, directed by Patricia Rozema. The title is taken from