I think I naturally gravitate to female writers because I’m inspired by their voice and their ability to reap success in an often male dominated field. Nora Ephron was a talented writer who knocked doors open for female screenwriters and wrote films that are firmly embedded in our culture. She also produced and directed films, no mean feet! After her recent death from cancer, I felt the need to acknowledge the inspiring legacy she leaves us with.
For those who have never seen When Harry met Sally, the title of this post comes from that film and that scene when Meg Ryan acts out having an organism for Billy Crystal in a diner. That moment sealed Ms Ephron’s legacy in cinema forever.
Nora Ephron has written, produced and directed some of the most watched and loved romantic comedies that have come out of Hollywood. They are truly iconic – When Harry met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle and You’ve got Mail are all brilliant examples of the genre and some of my favourite films. And they are all her vision. She brought Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks into our romantic lives and produced films that are warm and witty and have made me long for my own happily ever after.
You’ve got Mail is one of my favourite ever films. It’s hard to explain why. It can be corny and predictable and isn’t really laugh out loud funny but it’s warm and romantic and the perfect film to curl up with when you’re feeling down or sick. I love the setting of New York, the fact that the heroine works in a book shop and her favourite book is Pride and Prejudice and the fact you know who she’s meant to be with from the opening scene.
These quotes are just a sample of her genius wit and show what a character and talent she really was. She wasn’t afraid of having her own voice.
So thank you Ms Ephron for creating films that will remain on my shelves forever. You were truly inspiring.
Are you a fan of Nora Ephron’s films?
Victoria
xoxo
Vincent Mars
/ June 28, 2012I’ve saw You’ve Got Mail years ago when I still watched TV. From what I remember, it was fun. Meg Ryan worked in a small cozy library she did.
I’ve been a bit mischievous [http://theboywithahat.wordpress.com/2012/06/23/victoria-in-the-rain/] but I hope Victoria doesn’t mind. Troubadours have long dedicated their songs to ladies in distant lands, who they never knew or saw or met. And the flattered ladies liked it well enough and did not mind, and sometimes they even commented on the post saying they were flattered and liked it and did not mind. And the troubadours were happy and kept composing songs. And thus we have had Shakespeare and Byron and the rest of the lot.
Yes, I’m still trying to impress you
Victoria-writes
/ June 29, 2012Glad you enjoyed it when you watched. Her book shop is very cute! You don’t need to try to impress me, I’m really not that important
Bonnie
/ June 28, 2012I love Nora Ephron’s films, and for all the same reasons you do, really. They have that certain comfortabiltiy about them and I could watch them over and over. I adore that last quote, just vintage.
Victoria-writes
/ June 29, 2012Always knew you had good taste
suzicate
/ June 28, 2012Nora films are the best…love the same ones you do! She knew how to dig in and touch the hearts of women.
Victoria-writes
/ June 29, 2012Yay! I agree, they are the kind of films critics hate but we love!
faultlessfinish
/ June 28, 2012Love her films! Wonderful blog tribute
Victoria-writes
/ June 29, 2012Thanks!
I Made You A Mixtape
/ June 28, 2012Beautiful tribut to the great Ms Ephron. I have read all her books (as well as enjoyed most of her films) and remeber one sunny afternoon reading one of her books in go, her style of writing was so engaging. i was truly hocked yesterday when i heard she had passed away as I was not even aware of her being unwell. She is much missed.
Victoria-writes
/ June 29, 2012I haven’t read any of her books, I need to check them out. I think she kept her illness a secret, which makes me admire her more!
Lisa Wields Words
/ June 28, 2012I was going to write a Nora Ephron post, but now I don’t have too.
Victoria-writes
/ June 29, 2012Aw Lisa!
4amWriter
/ June 29, 2012I love Nora Ephron also. I think I appreciate her fun, lighthearted yet still poignant take on love and life. Thanks for sharing!
Victoria-writes
/ July 1, 2012That’s a wonderful way to put it!
Jackie Cangro
/ June 29, 2012I’m a fan of Nora Ephron! In fact I included a blurb about her in my post today also.
Her movies were great!
Victoria-writes
/ July 1, 2012Yay Jackie!
Patty
/ July 4, 2012Such a beautiful tribute to Nora Ephron. Thank you for sharing!
Victoria-writes
/ July 4, 2012Glad you liked it!