Reiner’s ode to male/female friendships satisfies in a droll rom-com with witty writing.
Attempting to challenge the principle that men and women can’t be “just friends”, Harry (Crystal) and Sally (Ryan) undergo a tumultuously comical relationship from prickly acquaintances to intimate confidantes to (gasp) lovers.
Ryan shines as bubbly, outspoken, nit-picking Sally, brilliantly countered by Crytstal’s morose demeanour and sardonic wit. Their lively chemistry sustains an otherwise tedious film.
Ephron’s writing is jocose, epigrammatic and affable and Reiner’s directing balances quick-witted banter with bitter confrontations.
Although cynical, predictable and unrealistic, When Harry Met Sally is still light-hearted, pleasant, and fun.
Jo Bradley.
It’s been a while since I’ve seen this movie, but I really like Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, As I said the film had the potential to be quite boring without those two in the lead!
LikeLike
I adore this movie. Every time I come across it on the television, I have to stop and watch it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Surprisingly I only saw it for the first time the other day but agree that it is a very charming film.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Cynical in the funniest possible way! I’m also going to have to look up “jocose” and “epigrammatic” after reading this!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Why is it so difficult to find an intelligent romantic comedy these days? When Harry Met Sally… makes it look so easy. Nora Ephron’s sharp script is the biggest highlight, but Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan have terrific chemistry. Crystal’s deadpan wit and Ryan’s bubbly personality play off each other wonderfully, and their gradually progressing relationship is entirely convincing. It all seems to happen so naturally.
LikeLiked by 1 person