“I’ll have what she’s having.”
It’s grand! It’s New York! It’s When Harry Met Sally! With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to indulge in all that screams “lovey-dovey,” whether that includes chocolates, flowers or a great romantic comedy. If you’re sick of The Notebook, it’s time to try the rom-com of all rom-coms: When Harry Met Sally. Written by Nora Ephron and directed by Rob Reiner, this film is a recipe for greatness and redefines an entire genre by charming all those who watch it.
The story follows Harry, played by Billy Crystal, and Sally, played by Meg Ryan. Upon their first meeting, the two feel eager to part ways. Harry is an opinionated cynic, while Sally is a fussy optimist. In this interaction, a question is raised, setting the tone for the movie: Can men and women ever really be “just friends?” Ten years later, when they run into each other in New York, the two put this to the test, befriending each other in the most quintessential of ways. However, when feelings begin to sneak through their undeniable chemistry, viewers are left wondering: is this inevitable fate, or a perfectly imperfect match?
Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan are the most flawless cast duo ever. Crystal is hilarious and is always armed with a witty quip. He brings his classic neurotic persona and style to Harry’s character, and of course, we adore it. Ryan, similarly, brings her energetic charisma to the scene in this breakout role, marking the start of her lovely contribution to Nora Ephron films, such as You’ve Got Mail and Sleepless in Seattle. Both Crystal and Ryan formed a chemistry so compelling and genuine, so vulnerable and natural, that I often found myself clutching my heart and looking at the screen with a look of delighted envy.
This movie, iconic for all the right reasons, features witty dialogue that makes perfect sense. They’re the type of conversations you overhear in a cafe, the ones that make you chuckle. Some are profoundly funny, and others are surprisingly touching. The writing is something that warms the soul. This, coupled with the music by Harry Connick Jr., creates a snug and lovely ambiance that’ll have you humming, swaying and tapping.
What ties the whole thing together is the setting of New York City in the late 80s. Each scene looks like The New Yorker cover, convincing everyone that New York is the most marvelous city in the world. There’s something so romantic about it all: the buildings, the foliage, the elegance, the character! This is the real New York, almost impossible to capture in film, yet capable through Reiner’s eyes.
Now, I have the imperative duty to attempt to portray the brilliance of the late Rob Reiner, who can only be described as some kind of wonderful. He brought light and joy to his films and sets, which are displayed on screen. The man was a legend, beloved by all who had the pleasure of meeting him. When Harry Met Sally, especially, proved special, as the movie wasn’t originally bound to be a love story until Reiner met his wife during production, and then believed in the unquestionable power of love. His romantic epiphany turned this story into the classic we know.
All I can say is, to all the singles gals and fellas out there, watch with both caution and hope. When Harry Met Sally is one of those movies that reminds us that true love isn’t always grandiose, nor is it always instantaneous. Often, it builds over the years, woven through imperfections, friendship and laughter. Like pieces in a puzzle, you’ll catch yourself looking at a loved one and think: It had to be you.
