This article explores the lasting impact of Nora Ephron's films on the romantic comedy genre. It highlights her signature style, including sharp dialogue, relatable characters, and social commentary, and examines how her work paved the way for modern rom-coms. The article also features recommendations from author Ilana Kaplan for her favorite Ephron-esque films.
“A Nora Ephron rom-com always has a flawed, messy heroine—someone who initially seems quite polished and put together, but is falling apart at the seams,” says Ilana Kaplan, author of, Ephron didn’t just entertain audiences with many of her films becoming huge hits; she transformed the rom-com into a lens through which to reflect the times. Take’s infamous diner scene, where Meg Ryan’s Sally shocks Billy Crystal’s Harry with the demonstration of a fake orgasm .
“I genuinely wonder sometimes if we would have the same kind of sex-driven rom-coms without that film,” Kaplan says. Despite being dismissed as “chick flicks” in their ’90s and early 2000s heyday—a period in which Ephron’s work was a defining force—the genre is experiencing a mini-resurgence. The success of blockbusters like, with its steamy enemies-to-lovers arc, along with the mainstream boom of romance novels often adapted for the screen thanks to BookTok, are fueling its revival.
Although there was “only one Nora,” as Kaplan says, Ephron’s influence—including signatures like razor-sharp dialogue, cozy visuals, complex characters we actually care about, and a dash of social commentary—live on. Below, Kaplan recommends her favorite 11 rom-coms for Ephron fans.“In this Leslye Headland movie, the dynamic between Jason Sudeikis and Alison Brie’s characters feels very much like a Harry and Sally relationship.
ROMANTIC COMEDY NORA EPHRON FILM INFLUENCE MODERN ROM-COMS HOLLYWOOD
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
A$AP Rocky's former friend testifies about alleged shooting as rapper faces decades in prisonTerrell Ephron, known as A$AP Relli, took the witness stand on Tuesday.
Read more »
Nora Roberts talks about her career, the romance genre and internet truthsNora Roberts is so prolific she had to take up a pen name so her publisher could release more of her books each year. It’s not just about her speed. It's also her range. She’s written more than 250 books, from romantic one-offs and fantasy-themed trilogies to a three-decade-old police procedural series.
Read more »
Nora Roberts is happily defying genres, 250 books inNora Roberts is so prolific she had to take up a pen name so her publisher could release more of her books each year.
Read more »
Longtime CTA chief of staff Nora Leerhsen to take over as acting president when Dorval Carter Jr. retiresNora Leerhsen to take over as acting CTA president when Dorval Carter Jr. retires
Read more »
Nora Fatehi and Jason Derulo Team Up for Global Dance Fusion Single 'Snake'Bollywood star Nora Fatehi and singer Jason Derulo collaborated on a new single, “Snake,” blending East Asian melodies with American dance music. The song, produced by Tommy Brown, aims to unite audiences from different regions. Fatehi explains her vision was for an “exotic” and dance-oriented track, while Derulo was drawn to its unique and cool sound. The collaboration marks a step towards a global music career for Fatehi, who signed with Warner Music Group in 2024. The music video, filmed in Morocco, showcases Fatehi and Derulo's impressive dance skills, blending bellydancing, hip-hop, and Bollywood choreography.
Read more »
Jason Derulo and Nora Fatehi Talk New Video 'Snake'Jason Derulo and Nora Fatehi are bringing their signature brand of sexy to the music video of their new single, ‘Snake.’
Read more »