When Harry Met Sally…, released in theaters on July 14, 1989, is widely considered one of the greatest romantic comedies of all time, and for good reason. Directed by Rob Reiner (A Few Good Men) and written by Nora Ephron (Sleepless in Seattle), this film brilliantly explores the timeless question: can men and women truly be just friends? It’s a witty, insightful, and ultimately heartwarming journey through a decade of friendship, missed connections, and the undeniable pull of destiny.
The story begins in 1977 with Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) sharing a contentious cross-country drive after college graduation. Their initial encounters are marked by philosophical disagreements, particularly on the impossibility of platonic male-female friendships.
Over the next twelve years, their paths repeatedly cross in New York City. Through various relationships, breakups, and life changes, they slowly build a deep friendship, becoming each other’s confidantes and emotional anchors. As their bond strengthens, they constantly grapple with the unspoken question of whether their friendship is destined to evolve into something more, leading to a series of hilarious and poignant moments about love, sex, and the complexities of human connection.
Crystal delivers a pitch-perfect performance as Harry as he embodies the character’s cynical wit, neurotic charm, and underlying vulnerability, making Harry both exasperating and deeply relatable. Crystal’s comedic timing is impeccable, particularly in his rapid-fire banter with Sally.
Ryan is utterly iconic as Sally, bringing a delightful blend of earnestness, fastidiousness, and a surprising capacity for emotional depth. Ryan’s performance, especially in the famous diner scene, cemented her status as a romantic comedy queen.
Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in When Harry Met Sally… (Photo/Columbia Pictures)
The chemistry between Crystal and Ryan is the undeniable heart of the film, making their evolving relationship feel authentic and captivating.
Carrie Fisher is brilliant as Marie, Sally’s witty and often cynical best friend, providing sharp observations and a dose of reality.
Bruno Kirby is equally excellent as Jess, Harry’s best friend, whose pragmatic views offer a counterpoint to Harry’s romantic dilemmas.
Harley Jane Kozak also appears as Helen, Harry’s ex-girlfriend, contributing to the narrative of their past relationships.
Reception for When Harry Met Sally…
When Harry Met Sally… grossed $1.1 million on its opening weekend, in limited release on 41 screens. Its following week in wide release, the film grossed $8.8 million and finished third at the box office behind Lethal Weapon 2 ($13 million) and Batman ($11.2 million).
The film would gross $92.8 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
When Harry Met Sally… is a masterclass in romantic comedy, celebrated for its intelligent script, memorable dialogue, and the genuine warmth of its characters. It’s a film that resonates because it speaks to universal truths about friendship, love, and the often-messy journey of finding your soulmate.
