In the age of social media, it seems that no film or celebrity is safe from criticism. Recently, a viral post on X, formerly known as Twitter, has ignited a heated debate among viewers of the beloved 1989 rom-com When Harry Met Sally. The focus of this controversy? Billy Crystal’s character, Harry Burns.
The post in question asked users to share the romantic comedy scene that had a profound impact on their lives. In response, user Zoe Rose Bryant shared the clip at the end of When Harry Met Sally where Harry rushes to profess his love for Sally Albright (played by Meg Ryan) at a New Year’s Eve party. While many fans cherish this moment as the pinnacle of romance, one Gen Z viewer expressed their inability to connect with the film due to differences in attractiveness.
This viewer wrote, “Could never get into this because she’s SO much prettier than him and he looks like the concept of a guy.” The comment quickly gained attention and sparked a flurry of responses from fans defending Crystal’s appearance and calling out society’s obsession with beauty standards.
One user lamented, “They’re calling Billy Crystal ugly. We have forgotten the ancient recipes,” highlighting how superficial judgments can overshadow other qualities that make someone attractive. Another fan defended Crystal’s charm in the film, stating, “Great script obviously but Billy Crystal really is off the charts charming here in a way that you cannot teach.”
However, not all viewers shared this sentiment. Some agreed with the initial criticism, claiming that Crystal was “nothing special” in terms of looks. This disagreement led to further debates about societal expectations and personal preferences when it comes to attraction.
What makes this discussion particularly interesting is its generational divide. While When Harry Met Sally has achieved cult status over time and resonates strongly with older audiences, it appears that Gen Z viewers have a different perspective. This disparity in opinions highlights how beauty standards and societal norms can evolve over time.
The film itself tells the story of two acquaintances who initially dislike each other but are brought back into each other’s lives years later. As they navigate their complicated friendship, romantic feelings begin to develop. The movie culminates with Harry delivering a heartfelt speech to Sally on New Year’s Eve, leading them to ultimately walk down the aisle together.
Interestingly, director Rob Reiner had originally planned for a different ending. In an interview on CNN’s Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace, Reiner revealed that he had intended for Harry and Sally not to end up together on New Year’s Eve. He explained that his personal experience with divorce influenced this darker conclusion.
However, Reiner’s perspective shifted when he met his current wife, Michele Singer, during the making of the film. They got married in 1989, the same year When Harry Met Sally was released, and have remained together ever since. This change of heart may explain why the film ultimately concludes with a more traditional happily-ever-after ending.
The debate sparked by Gen Z viewers’ criticism of Billy Crystal’s appearance in When Harry Met Sally raises important questions about societal beauty standards and the impact they have on our perception of relationships and romance. It serves as a reminder that attractiveness goes beyond physical appearances and should not be the sole determinant of one’s worth or ability to love.
As discussions around body positivity continue to gain traction in popular culture, it is crucial to challenge narrow definitions of beauty and embrace diversity in all its forms. Whether it be through films like When Harry Met Sally or everyday interactions, we must strive for a more inclusive society where everyone feels seen and valued for who they are rather than how they look.