(1998)
This charming update of The Shop Around the Corner blended with Pride and Prejudice is not only Nora Ephron’s best film but also romantic comedy perfection to film buffs who long for the screwball comedies of the past with bubbly heroines and clever heroes whose fast, fresh banter adds fuel to the fire of believable chemistry between the leads.
Ryan is delightful as a cute, happy children’s bookstore owner involved with serious, narcissistic columnist Greg Kinnear. When successful Barnes & Noble-esque book giant Tom Hanks brings his business to her corner, he manages to threaten both her livelihood and heart as the two unknowingly correspond in flirtatious, anonymous e-mails adding new meaning to the term love-hate relationship. Excellent musical choices, crisp cinematography and a likable supporting cast make it the perfect film to curl up with after a hard day at work.
Nora Ephron
