When Harry Met Sally almost had quite a different ending. (Spoilers ahead!) During an interview with CNN's Chris Wallace, the classic film's director and co-writer Rob Reiner revealed that he and Nora Ephron's script originally had a sadder ending for Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan). Reiner explained that the original ending had the two characters meeting after years, conversing, and then parting ways. Reflecting on his own personal experiences, Reiner shared, “I had been married for 10 years. I’d been single for 10 years, and I couldn't figure out how I was ever going to be with anybody, and that gave birth to When Harry Met Sally.'
However, fate intervened during the filming as Rob Reiner met his now-wife Michele, leading to a significant change in the film's ending. Reiner credited Michele for inspiring the heartwarming and hopeful conclusion that resonates with audiences to this day. The film's final moments, capturing the essence of their evolving relationship, have become iconic in the realm of romantic comedies.
In the climactic scene of When Harry Met Sally, Harry expresses his profound love for Sally in a heartfelt New Year's Eve confession. He articulates the depth of his feelings, adoring everything about her, from subtle gestures to idiosyncrasies. Harry's declaration, 'When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible,' encapsulates the enduring romance that unfolds between the characters.
Since its release in 1989, When Harry Met Sally has maintained its status as a beloved rom-com classic. Billy Crystal, who portrayed Harry, attributes the film's enduring appeal to its authenticity. Crystal remarked, “It’s an amazing movie because there’s no plot. In typical romantic comedies, they go through so much adversity. The obstacle in this movie is themselves.'
The evolution of When Harry Met Sally from a potential bittersweet conclusion to a heartwarming love story underscores the transformative power of personal experiences and relationships. Ultimately, the film's legacy endures due to its honest portrayal of love, friendship, and self-discovery—themes that continue to captivate audiences across generations.
