798. When Harry Met Sally

When Harry Met Sally
1989
Directed by Rob Reiner

After Die Hard and Princess Bride you are probably sick of me gushing.  I am sorry; I can't help it!  80s movies are my jam.  Prepare for another fangirl rave.

In 1977, Sally Albright and Harry Burns both graduate from the University of Chicago.  Although they have never met before, they arrange to drive together to New York City through Harry's girlfriend and Sally's friend Amanda.  After stopping for food, Harry makes a pass at Sally.  Sally explains that they are just going to be friends, but Harry claims that men and women can't just be friends.  They part, but end up running into each other years later (because apparently New York City is a very small town) and Harry's theory is tested.

This is one of those movies that I have seen at least a dozen times.  I think a lot of people will write it off as cliche, which it is rather unfair.  First of all, the screenplay was written by Nora Ephron, so you know you are going to get funny and real dialogue.  You also have Billy Crystal, who isn't your typical smirking romcom lead.  Yes, Meg Ryan can be annoying.  I had the misfortune of watching French Kiss once, where her lactose intolerant character seemingly gets drunk off cheese.  But she isn't obnoxious in this...or at least, she is the right kind of obnoxious.

I also love that there isn't the typical ridiculous misunderstanding that usually keeps couples apart in these movies.  The two are just too neurotic to see what is right in front of them.  Also, as a random side note, the more times I watch this the more I realize what an ass Jess is.

One of the best, if not the best, romantic comedies of all time.

RATING: *****

Interesting Facts:

Nora Ephron was never happy with the title and says it is her only regret about the film.

The Pictionary scene was improvised.