review by Silent J
When Harry Met Sally... 1989
Rewatched May 19, 2012
Silent J’s review:
Wow! This is a lot better than I remember it being! I never hated it and always thought it was a perfect date movie, but this film just gets better with age. 90 minutes goes by like a breeze and on my second watch, I can't help but want more! This is such an honest film. This is the ultimate anti-rom com and unlike some self proclaimed anti-romance films out there that bash schmaltzy romantic comedies and then becomes one in the middle (ala Friends With Benefits) this plays it straight throughout. This film does'nt keep the story and characters in a cliched box nor does it succumb to slapstick or gross out gags that nearly ruin the film (ala Bridesmaids), but expands on what makes reationships real through the universal themes of love, friendship, an human nature. We can all relate to stuff like that. This has some of the funniest and realistic conversations I've ever seen between two characters. Such a wonderful cast. Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan have perfect chemistry. I like that neither character is played for laughs or as a fool but as people with distinctive views on love. Fantastic supporting performances from Bruno Kirby and Carrie Fisher that help round out the pacing. Aside from rather pointless interviews between elderly couples, this is a rather excellent romantic film that is the perfect date movie.
Great review. Definitely agree with the anti-romcom comment. Boother the leads are just so good in their roles. It's like these were the roles they were born to play. I always thought the first 20 minutes or so, basically the car ride, was masterfully written and acted. Among my favorite 20 minutes in a comedy ever. Loved Billy Crystal's character!!