

All hail the queen of rom-coms
Jan 1, 2025
Join Ilana Kaplan, author of "Nora Ephron at the Movies," as she celebrates the queen of rom-coms, Nora Ephron. Kaplan dives into how Ephron redefined female characters in romantic comedies, showcasing their complexity and sexuality. She explores the lasting influence of classics like "When Harry Met Sally" and discusses the legacy of female filmmakers in shaping modern narratives. The episode reflects on Ephron's emotional storytelling and its resonance with today’s rom-coms, affirming her indelible mark on the genre.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Rom-Com Revival
- When Harry Met Sally revived the rom-com by portraying realistic women.
- Sally's messy, outspoken nature and open discussions about female sexuality resonated with audiences.
Sally's Pie
- In When Harry Met Sally, Sally orders pie with specific instructions, showcasing her quirks.
- Ephron's characters are loved despite their flaws, making them relatable.
Cosmopolitan Women
- Ephron's female characters are cosmopolitan and streetwise, engaging in frank talk about sex and dating.
- These women were ambitious, smart, and the opposite of the lovestruck, virginal woman of past rom-coms.