When Harry Met Sally

Movie Recommendations

"When Harry Met Sally..." is a 1989 romantic comedy film directed by Rob Reiner and written by Nora Ephron. The film stars Billy Crystal as Harry Burns and Meg Ryan as Sally Albright. It explores the evolving relationship between the two title characters over the span of twelve years, focusing on the themes of friendship, love, and the complexity of romantic relationships.

Plot Summary

The film begins in 1977, with Harry and Sally sharing a car ride from Chicago to New York after graduating from the University of Chicago. During the trip, they argue about whether men and women can ever be just friends without sex getting in the way. Their initial meeting ends with them parting ways, believing they will never see each other again.

Five years later, they run into each other on a plane but again part ways. Another five years pass, and they meet once more in a New York bookstore, each coming out of long-term relationships. This time, they strike up a friendship, discussing their lives and relationships. Despite their initial arguments, they become close friends, often debating the intricacies of relationships.

As their friendship deepens, both Harry and Sally grapple with their feelings for each other, leading to a night of intimacy that complicates their relationship. They go through a period of estrangement, but eventually, Harry realizes he is in love with Sally. The film concludes on New Year's Eve, with Harry declaring his love for Sally and them sharing a kiss, suggesting a romantic future together.

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Soundtrack

The soundtrack of "When Harry Met Sally..." is renowned for its classic jazz and pop standards, primarily performed by Harry Connick Jr. His renditions of these timeless songs contribute significantly to the film's romantic and nostalgic atmosphere.

Key Tracks

  1. "It Had to Be You" - Performed by Harry Connick Jr., this classic song serves as a central theme throughout the film, encapsulating the inevitability and charm of Harry and Sally's relationship.
  2. "Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off" - Another track by Connick Jr., this playful duet underscores the film's humorous and lighthearted moments.
  3. "But Not for Me" - A melancholic yet beautiful rendition by Connick Jr., reflecting the film's exploration of unrequited love and romantic longing.
  4. "Don't Get Around Much Anymore" - A lively jazz standard that adds to the film's nostalgic and upbeat feel, performed by Connick Jr.
  5. "I Could Write a Book" - This track enhances the film's romantic ambiance, with Connick Jr.'s smooth vocals providing a soothing backdrop to key scenes.
  6. "Autumn in New York" - A classic song that complements the film's New York setting, highlighting the city's romantic allure.
  7. "Stompin' at the Savoy" - An upbeat and energetic number that adds to the film's vibrant and lively mood.

The "When Harry Met Sally..." soundtrack, with Harry Connick Jr.'s smooth jazz interpretations, plays a crucial role in setting the film's romantic tone. The music enhances the nostalgic and heartfelt atmosphere, making it an integral part of the film's enduring charm and appeal. The soundtrack was well-received, earning Connick Jr. a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Male Vocal Performance.

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Movie Connections

  1. Romantic Comedy: "Sleepless in Seattle" (1993) - Another Nora Ephron script featuring Meg Ryan, this film explores themes of fate and love across distances, much like the exploration of relationship dynamics in "When Harry Met Sally."

  2. Romantic Drama: "Before Sunrise" (1995) - This film follows a couple who meet on a train and spend a night discussing life and love in Vienna, similar to the deep conversations that define Harry and Sally's relationship.

  3. Comedy-Drama: "500 Days of Summer" (2009) - This film offers a non-linear narrative about the complexities of romantic relationships, echoing the nuanced portrayal of male-female relationships in "When Harry Met Sally."

  4. Romantic Comedy: "Notting Hill" (1999) - Combining romance with comedy, this film about a bookshop owner's relationship with a famous actress explores romantic themes in a light-hearted, yet profound manner akin to "When Harry Met Sally."

  5. Comedy: "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" (2005) - While more overtly comedic, this film delves into the awkwardness and humor inherent in relationships, similar to the lighter, comedic moments between Harry and Sally.

  6. Dramatic Romance: "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" (2004) - Though more dramatic and surreal, this film's exploration of memory and love reflects the deep exploration of relationship dynamics found in "When Harry Met Sally."

  7. Romantic Comedy: "Love Actually" (2003) - This ensemble film examines various aspects and types of relationships, reminiscent of the broad, yet intimate look at Harry and Sally's evolving relationship.

  8. Dramedy: "Silver Linings Playbook" (2012) - This film mixes humor with serious themes of mental health and reconciliation, much like the balance of light-hearted and serious moments in "When Harry Met Sally."

  9. Romantic Comedy: "Annie Hall" (1977) - Directed by Woody Allen, this film's narrative style and focus on a couple's relationship from beginning to end influenced many later romantic comedies, including "When Harry Met Sally."

  10. Romantic Comedy: "Julie & Julia" (2009) - Another Nora Ephron film that intertwines personal and romantic discovery with culinary passion, reflecting the personal growth and relationship themes central to "When Harry Met Sally."