With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, there is no better week than this to present the best classic romantic comedy. While the winner isn’t exactly deemed an “older” film, this movie had all the aspects of a champion. When Harry Met Sally only made the No. 6 slot on AFI’s 100 Years…100 Laughs list; however, I believe this romantic comedy is the most enjoyable for both men and women.
This 1989 classic broke the icky unrealistic-love stereotype romantic comedies are almost always doomed with. The plot revolves around Harry Burns and Sally Albright, a mismatched pair who end up driving from Chicago to New York together after college graduation. Throughout a span of 12 years Harry and Sally try to answer the age-old question: Can men and women really be friends?
Filled with witty dialogue written by the late Nora Ephron, Harry and Sally partake in the ultimate battle of the sexes. What works so well in this movie is the fact neither the male or the female is favored in the fight. While written by Ephron, the movie is directed by Rob Reiner. By having a female writer and male director, gender balances each other out. There is no moment where it is clear the female is right or vice versa. This creates a movie relatable for both men and women, the perfect Valentine’s Day date night.
Another great aspect of the film is the precise characterization of not only the leads, but the supporting cast as well. In typical film cliché fashion, the lead character’s best friend is goofy and eccentric, providing mainly the comedy in the genre romantic comedy. However, in When Harry Met Sally, comedian Billy Crystal plays the leading man, delivering a load of laughs with Harry’s pessimistic charm. Meg Ryan, queen of romantic comedies, doesn’t back down to Crystal as Sally, uptight “thinks she’s low maintenance but really is high maintenance” working woman. The added quirkiness to this film is that the best friends are also just as humorous. As shown in the clip below, Sally and Harry’s friends Marie and Jess shine right next to Crystal and Ryan.
I highly recommend this movie, if not for Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart, then with a group of friends, or alone with a pint of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. Finally a romantic comedy with the perspective of both genders, this film is not one to miss. I dare you to watch it and try not to quote it in everyday situations afterword.
What do you think? Is When Harry Met Sally the greatest romantic comedy of all time? Can men and women be friends? What are some of your Valentine’s Day favorites?
Classic Rewind 