‘Masterpiece’ romantic comedy with 88% score that’s the perfect film for winter nights | Films | Entertainment

A romantic comedy that is perfect for cosy autumnal nights is hailed by fans as a “masterpiece”. When Harry Met Sally… (1989) tells the story of two former college classmates, Harry Burns (played by Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan), who meet in a series of chance encounters throughout their adult lives.

But as they grow closer, they struggle to work out whether they can be friends, or if there’s something more between them. Their hilariously dysfunctional bond is the centrepiece of the film, and a famous scene in which Sally fakes an orgasm in a restaurant in front of shocked guests became one of the most iconic moments in rom-com history.

The film was directed by Rob Reiner (known for other classics, including This is Spinal Tap and A Few Good Men) and written by Nora Ephron.

An article by Salon.com said the film hailed it as the “perfect fall movie”. In her piece for the outlet, Nardos Haile said it appeals to “our innate human need for connection”, which is why “every year when the fall rolls around, people reminisce about the film’s impact during the colder seasons of the year”. 

A Redditor took to the platform to ask fellow users for a “cosy” film set in autumn, and When Harry Met Sally… was mentioned several times.

Fans have showered the film with praise on Rotten Tomatoes, with one writing: “Reiner and company have come up with a wonderful concoction, a humorous, perceptive and completely engaging movie about the possibilities of love and commitment in the ’80s.”

Another wrote: “When you can quote multiple times from a decades-old film and in a positive way, that’s a good sign. Set the standard for rom-coms.

“Brilliant in every aspect, from casting to pacing. Probably wouldn’t be as good a film had Billy Crystal not been cast as Harry.”

A third said: “This film honestly shouldn’t have worked, but it did. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan’s chemistry on screen was captivating and believable.

“This story just worked. Nora Ephron wrote a fantastic script, and Rob Reiner directed this beautifully.”

A fan writing on IMDb said: “What else can be said about this film other than it truly is a masterpiece. So many great moments, which I won’t spoil for anyone who hasn’t seen the film. The writing, cast and story are all phenomenal. 

The film has a 15 certificate and contains strong language, and strong sexual themes and references.

When Harry Met Sally… is available to buy or rent on various platforms, including Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Sky Store.