I’ll have what she’s having

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.