I have only seen this movie once or twice, but When Harry Met Sally sticks in my mind as a memorable and classic romantic comedy. This 1989 movie is currently available for viewing on HBOMax.

Summary

In 1977, University of Chicago graduates Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) share a car on their way to New York. They do not really hit it off, especially after Harry makes several comments that a man and woman can never be just friends, because physical desires will always get in the way. The two arrive and go their separate ways. The film, then, bumps through time over the next 10 years to follow both of their searches for love, with the two coincidentally meeting on occasion. Eventually, a close friendship blooms between them. Despite being the perfect match, Harry and Sally stubbornly insist that they’re relationship is purely platonic. But what will happen when they are confronted with the question, “Can a man and woman be friends, without sex getting in the way?”

Some Spice in A Deli

Although very wack, probably the most iconic scene from this movie has to be Sally’s loud demonstration of a woman faking a climax right in the middle of a packed deli. Apparently, Meg Ryan came up with the idea for the scene herself, as she thought it would fit her character. But the cherry on top for this scene was a fellow customer (played by Rob Reiner’s mother, Estelle) delivering the famous line “I’ll have what she’s having!” This scene made waves in the way we as a society talk about sex.

Four-Way Call

One of my personal favorite scenes is the four way call between Harry, Sally, and their two best friends (who are a couple). The choreography of this scene is so satisfying and fun, and it happens right after a pivotal plot point in the movie. Apparently, the actors rehearsed this scene tirelessly and had to do dozens of takes to get it just right. You can watch the scene here. Be warned, though! It contains spoilers.

My Thoughts

This movie is very cute and well done. I love the way that it is written and how the story takes place over such a long period of the main characters’ lives. Although it is a bit predictable, most other romantic comedies are as well. I think it is a token of the genre. One thing I will point out, however, is that I am not a big fan of the film pushing the concept that men and women can only have sexual and romantic relationships. I think this is outdated, and it definitely bugged me a little bit while I was watching the film. Overall though, the way this movie was filmed makes it really enjoyable. The dialogue is nicely balanced between witty, funny, and charming. I would recommend giving this a watch if you like the friends to lovers trope and a good bit of humor.