To put it simply, actress Meg Ryan is a star and staple of the romantic comedy (rom-com) genre. So much of her filmography is timeless because of the messages, performances, and emotions it evokes in others. Her performances are authentic, which encourages the audience to root alongside her throughout the journey. I know her films have made impressions on multiple generations seeing as both my mom and my friends are avid supporters. With that being said, I’m going to discuss Meg Ryan’s most famous rom-coms and why they are loved. While also writing about how her rom-coms capture the fall season so well and inform others on how to have your own Meg Ryan rom-com moments this fall.
Meg Ryan & CT
Meg Ryan is a Connecticut native, growing up in Fairfield and attending the University of Connecticut as a journalism major before going to New York University. After I found out about this connection, I have been more drawn to all things Meg Ryan. Her rom-coms pull at your heartstrings and have you jumping for joy. They have also been a comfort since the very first movie I watched of hers, which was Kate & Leopold at age 10. Given that exposure and having grown up with her rom-coms coupled with the UConn connection, I pay attention. Since Connecticut is part of New England which is famous for its fall foliage, I thought that New Englanders could resonate deeper with the essence of Meg Ryan’s rom-coms given these connections.
The Big Three’s Themes
To start discussing the influence of her romantic comedies without introducing what I call her Big Three would be incomplete. I’ll be starting with Meg Ryan’s first leading role, which brought a Golden Globe nomination: When Harry Met Sally. The audience follows the story of how peers become friends and then something more in this 12-year journey in the lives of Harry and Sally. Watching their relationship blossom wouldn’t be complete without the iconic landscape of the Big Apple during the fall and winter. The weather and unfolding romance brought out the best wardrobe choices from both stars. I want to combine Sally’s gorgeous coats and scarves with Harry’s legendary cashmere sweater, creating the perfect fall outfit.
Then, a few years later Meg Ryan teams up with Tom Hanks to create Sleepless in Seattle. A grieving father must confront his feelings after his son calls a radio show looking to find a wife for his widowed father. This interaction is heard by an intelligent reporter, Annie Reed, prompting her to reflect and realize her connection to that family based on their vulnerabilities and values. The pull between their lives given their geographic distance makes our hearts full because love will bring people together no matter how far away. That inspiring message is uplifting and perfect for the fall because the end of the year makes us all nostalgic and bittersweet.
Finally, we have probably the first internet romance between rival bookstore owners on screen with You’ve Got Mail. Kathleen and Joe are rivals, one is a local bookstore owner, and the other is part of a big chain, yet they correspond online and develop feelings without realizing the other’s identity. This twist couldn’t happen today based on the nature of dating apps but the sentiment of finding love in unexpected places and with unexpected people is real and relatable. What I take away is that during the fall people start to reflect on themselves from earlier in the year and have revelations. I would think that potentially looking at people or problems in a new light happens the clearest during this season and finding love with the unexpected is a marvelous fall practice.
New Film & Reflection
This piece is very timely because Meg Ryan is starring in a new rom-com coming out on November 3, 2023, called What Happens Later. What we know is that Meg Ryan co-wrote, directs, and stars in this new story about ex-lovers who are snowed in together at an airport. Will their spark be enough to put out the snow? I can’t wait to watch the magic again, this time with older and more mature individuals.
Overall, I find love and comfort during the fall because of the beauty of nature and the slight chill in the air. It creates the perfect atmosphere for watching the best rom-coms especially if you have a New England background. However, it’s also the time to spend quality time with others as the holiday season kicks off. What better way to hang out with the girls than bonding over sentimental rom-coms? My advice to have our own Meg Ryan Fall is to lead with your heart, seek out your passions or interests, and be true to yourself. These ideas are represented by all of the characters mentioned in the rom-coms. Hopefully, you can enjoy the weather while wearing your favorite sweater and even find the right partner at the same time.