Summary of “When Harry Met Sally”

Khushi Singhal
2 min readJul 3, 2023

--

“When Harry Met Sally” is a classic romantic comedy directed by Rob Reiner and released in 1989. The film tells the story of Harry Burns (played by Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (played by Meg Ryan), two individuals who meet and become friends after graduating from the University of Chicago and embark on a tumultuous journey towards love.

The movie begins with Harry and Sally driving to New York City together. Over the years, they run into each other several times and strike up conversations, but their initial encounters are filled with witty banter and skepticism about the possibility of men and women being friends without any romantic involvement. Despite their contrasting personalities, Harry’s cynical and assertive demeanor and Sally’s neurotic and high-strung nature, they form a genuine friendship.

As the years go by, both Harry and Sally experience failed relationships and personal growth, which brings them closer together. They confide in each other about their respective love lives and develop a deep understanding of one another. However, Harry remains convinced that men and women can never be just friends due to sexual tension, while Sally believes it is possible.

Eventually, Harry and Sally reach a turning point during a late-night phone call when they realize they are both lonely and yearning for a committed relationship. They decide to give dating a try and cautiously enter into a romantic relationship. However, their fear of losing the friendship they treasure leads to a falling out, and they part ways.

Months later, Harry and Sally coincidentally meet again at a bookstore. They realize they still have strong feelings for each other and reconcile, confessing their love. The film ends with a montage of interviews with older couples sharing their love stories, highlighting the enduring power of love and the possibility of finding a lifelong partner.

“When Harry Met Sally” is celebrated for its witty dialogue, memorable scenes, and its exploration of the complexities of friendship and romance. It has become a beloved film in the romantic comedy genre, capturing the hearts of audiences with its timeless portrayal of love, friendship, and the notion that sometimes the person you’re meant to be with is right in front of you.

--

--