After an eight-year hiatus from acting, Meg Ryan made her highly anticipated return to the silver screen this week in the romantic comedy “What Happens Later.” Known for her roles in beloved classics like “When Harry Met Sally…,” “Sleepless in Seattle,” and “You’ve Got Mail,” Ryan solidified herself as the queen of romantic comedies throughout the late 1980s and early 2000s. In “What Happens Later,” a film that Ryan co-wrote, produced, and directed, she stars alongside David Duchovny as a former couple who unexpectedly reunite at an airport during a snowstorm. As they navigate their complicated past, hilarity ensues.
When asked about her comeback, Ryan stated, “I never really went anywhere to begin with.” While the idea for “What Happens Later” came to her during the pandemic, Ryan insists that her return to the genre that made her famous was not a deliberate decision. However, after nearly 15 years since her last romantic comedy, her role in “What Happens Later” has reignited interest in her previous films and garnered excitement from fans.
Ryan’s breakthrough role was in the 1989 film “When Harry Met Sally…,” where she starred opposite Billy Crystal. This movie marked a turning point in her career, propelling her to stardom and setting a new standard for leading ladies in romantic comedies. Throughout the 1990s, Ryan appeared in six more romantic comedies, two of which were iconic collaborations with writer and director Nora Ephron: “Sleepless in Seattle” and “You’ve Got Mail.” These films showcased Ryan’s ability to portray relatable, strong-willed women who embody the changing priorities and aspirations of women in that era.
Ryan’s characters were known for their easy relatability and witty banter. They challenged outdated gender roles and highlighted the importance of depth and substance in relationships. Ryan’s intelligence and expressive acting made her a standout in the genre, as her characters exuded a combination of confidence, vulnerability, and neuroticism that audiences couldn’t help but connect with.
While many of Ryan’s films drew inspiration from classic Hollywood romantic comedies, they also added a modern twist that resonated with audiences of the time. She brought the girl-next-door archetype into the 90s, with her own unique charm and spunk. Ryan’s characters were not solely focused on finding a husband or fulfilling societal expectations; instead, they sought equality and intellectual connection with their male counterparts.
Of all her romantic comedies, “When Harry Met Sally…” stands out as a timeless classic. Its substance, witty banter, and the way it challenged traditional notions about women and relationships set it apart from others in the genre. Despite the passage of time, Sally’s character remains relatable and relevant to this day, cementing Ryan’s status as a legendary actress in the romantic comedy realm.
In conclusion, Meg Ryan’s return to the romantic comedy genre with “What Happens Later” has reignited interest in her previous films that defined an era. Ryan’s ability to bring relatable, intelligent, and witty characters to life set her apart as the queen of romantic comedy. Her onscreen presence and expressiveness captivate audiences, making her performances memorable and timeless.
