When Harry Met Sally (1989): A Romance Classic

Who says men and women can’t be friends?

When Harry Met Sally arrived for its date in theaters in 1989. The story revolves around two people and their decade-long friendship. Harry and Sally debate on any subject, especially relationships. As the years go by, the pair realizes they have feelings stronger than friendship.

The late Rob Reiner left a legacy across the film world, especially with When Harry Met Sally, a romance classic. It’s movies like these that always deserve a rewatch. This movie is funny, heartfelt, and has garnered conversations for decades. We can make our own choices in relationships, but we always value friendships.

This movie wouldn’t have worked without the power dynamic of Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan as Harry Baum and Sally Albright. Crystal’s razor-sharp dry humor blends perfectly with Ryan’s fiery personality.

Complex is beyond the definition to describe the pair. The actors make these characters feel real, with Harry’s hidden battles and Sally’s specific food orders. They have several conversations and debates, the main buzzer being relationships. Amazingly, one of them doesn’t jump out of the car during their first meeting. They know a spark is there.

Their connection is what the film is about. Harry and Sally understand each other better than anybody else. That’s the most heartwarming part of their friendship. I was in my early teens when I first watched this film. I have always loved the scene where Harry comforts an upset Sally. It’s a testament of friendship. You will always have someone here for you.

This film is a prime example of supportive best friends. Bruno Kirby (Jess) and the late Carrie Fisher (Marie) are always here to give Harry and Sally advice. More credits include Steven Ford, Lisa Jane Persky, Michelle Nicastro, and Harley Kozak. The late Rob Reiner’s mother, Estelle Reiner, delivers a now-iconic line.

All of Reiner’s films felt so personal. Much of the story is based on his own experiences when he was divorced and single. He gives the performances room to breathe and lets the rhythm of conversation guide the pacing.

Reiner paid close attention to human aspects and stories of relationships. That’s why he added segments of real-life couples telling their stories. It added a genuine appeal.

Reiner worked on this film with filmmaker Nora Ephron, who wrote the script. Sally’s precise food orders were inspired by Ephron. The story tracks the characters' lives through a decade. Every scene flows naturally in Reiner’s direction.

When Harry Met Sally is a funny drama with rather deep moments. The film is packed with iconic moments. Who could top Ryan’s fake orgasm scene in the restaurant? Reportedly, all the women crew members were laughing during this scene, while the men stayed silent.

Another interesting fact is that it was not the toughest scene to film. For Reiner, the most challenging scene was the split-screen phone call in the climax. To accomplish this shot, Reiner did one long continuous take, with actors reading their dialogue on the spot from different locations, and no cuts. This was later intertwined with the one iconic shot in the finished film.

The film explores human themes about friendship, romance, and the messy space in between. Romance is not like a sandwich. Relationships play an immense role in the film. Whether you want to be in a relationship or not, always try. It’s a film about learning who you are and recognizing what you need.

The film remains a classic over thirty years later. When Harry Met Sally makes a great date night romantic comedy for Valentine’s Day.