ROB REINER

Bil’s rating (out of 5):   BBBB.5.

USA, 1989.  Castle Rock Entertainment, Nelson Entertainment.  Screenplay by Nora Ephron.  Cinematography by Barry Sonnenfeld.  Produced by Rob Reiner, Andrew Scheinman.  Music by Marc Shaiman, Harry Connick Jr..  Production Design by Jane Musky.  Costume Design by Gloria Gresham.  Film Editing by Robert Leighton.  

Nora Ephron’s excellent screenplay adds a wonderful touch of neurotic glee to the romantic comedy genre. The story centres around the relationship between two good friends (Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan) who meet in college and stay good friends while having unhealthy relationships with others. They consider having a romantic relationship with each other, but avoid it for fear of ruining their friendship until they finally take the plunge and encounter all the dangers that lie therein. The two performers bring all of Ephron’s casually eccentric dialogue to life with verve, particularly a deservedly famous scene where Ryan fakes an orgasm in a diner. Delightful romance, with even more interesting and colourful supporting characters.

Academy Award Nomination:  Best Original Screenplay

Golden Globe Award Nominations:  Best Picture-Musical/Comedy; Best Actor-Musical/Comedy (Billy Crystal); Best Actress-Musical/Comedy (Meg Ryan); Best Director (Rob Reiner); Best Screenplay