Understanding ‘When Harry Met Sally’: A Comprehensive Parents’ Guide

Introduction

‘When Harry Met Sally’ is a classic romantic comedy that has captured the hearts of audiences for decades. While it may be a beloved film for many, parents may have concerns about its content and whether it is appropriate for their children. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the movie’s themes, language, and scenes to help parents make an informed decision about whether ‘When Harry Met Sally’ is suitable for their family.

Plot Summary

‘When Harry Met Sally’ follows the lives of Harry Burns and Sally Albright, who meet as college graduates and develop a close friendship over the years. The movie explores the question of whether men and women can truly be friends without any romantic feelings getting in the way. As the story unfolds, Harry and Sally navigate their own relationships and eventually realize their true feelings for each other.

Themes

1. Love and Friendship: The central theme of ‘When Harry Met Sally’ is the exploration of love and friendship. The movie raises questions about whether it is possible for men and women to maintain a platonic friendship without any romantic complications.

2. Timing and Fate: Another theme that runs throughout the film is the idea of timing and fate. Harry and Sally meet multiple times throughout their lives, but it is only when the timing is right that they are able to recognize their true feelings for each other.

Language and Dialogue

The language used in ‘When Harry Met Sally’ is generally mild, with occasional instances of mild profanity. The dialogue is witty and engaging, with memorable lines that have become iconic in the world of romantic comedies.

Scenes to Consider

While ‘When Harry Met Sally’ is a romantic comedy, there are a few scenes that may be more suitable for older audiences. Parents should consider the following scenes before deciding whether to watch the movie with their children:

1. The Deli Orgasm Scene: This scene, in which Sally demonstrates a fake orgasm in a deli, may be uncomfortable for younger viewers and may require explanation or discussion.
2. The New Year’s Eve Confession: In this scene, Harry confesses his love for Sally during a New Year’s Eve party. While it is a pivotal moment in the movie, parents may want to consider whether their children are ready for discussions about romantic feelings.

Is ‘When Harry Met Sally’ Suitable for Children?

Ultimately, the decision of whether ‘When Harry Met Sally’ is suitable for children depends on the individual child and their maturity level. While the movie does contain some mature themes and scenes, it is generally a lighthearted romantic comedy that can be enjoyed by older teenagers and adults.

Conclusion

‘When Harry Met Sally’ is a timeless romantic comedy that explores the complexities of love and friendship. While it may not be suitable for younger children due to some mature themes and scenes, older teenagers and adults can appreciate the witty dialogue and heartfelt performances. By understanding the movie’s content and themes, parents can make an informed decision about whether ‘When Harry Met Sally’ is appropriate for their family.

References

1. IMDb. (n.d.). When Harry Met Sally… (1989) – IMDb. Retrieved October 20, 2021, from https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098635/

2. Rotten Tomatoes. (n.d.). When Harry Met Sally… (1989). Retrieved October 20, 2021, from https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/when_harry_met_sally

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