'Pure magic' rom-com hailed one of the best leaving BBC iPlayer in days

"When Harry Met Sally... is pure movie magic", one review of the film declares, encapsulating what many consider to be one of the finest romantic comedies in cinematic history.

Fans have only a few days left to watch the 1989 rom-com, directed by Rob Reiner and penned by Nora Ephron, as it's set to depart from BBC iPlayer on 31 August.

The film explores the age-old question, "Can men and women ever just be friends?" as it traces the evolving relationship between Harry Burns and Sally Albright over a span of 12 years, transitioning from friendship to romantic love.

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Our protagonists first cross paths in Chicago, with Harry dating Sally's mate Amanda Reese, and they share a journey to New York City. Over the ensuing 12 years, their paths continue to intersect in various scenarios, deepening their bond.

The spark for When Harry Met Sally, reports the Express, was ignited following Reiner's divorce from Penny Marshall. An interview conducted by Ephron with the director laid the groundwork for Harry's character, while Sally was modelled on Ephron herself and some of her pals.

The film boasts a star-studded cast including Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan, Carrie Fisher, and Bruno Kirby. When Crystal joined the project, he added his own touches to the script, with much of the dialogue reportedly inspired by the real-life camaraderie between Reiner and Crystal.

When Harry Met Sally earned roughly $93 million worldwide against a production budget of $16 million, proving to be a box office triumph. The film also garnered multiple prestigious nominations, with Ephron securing Oscar, BAFTA, and Writers Guild of America Award nods for her screenplay.

The romantic comedy boasts an 89 per cent rating on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, with one critic saying: "It's a perfect movie, the pinnacle of Meg Ryan's career, and the only thing I think about when thinking about Billy Crystal."

Meanwhile, another reviewer added: "It succeeds admirably -- not only making you laugh but also providing a sweet romantic refuge. It makes you want to believe in romance again, in spite of all the evidence to the contrary."

A third critic lauded the leading duo's performances: "A well-written and well-directed movie with excellent performances from both Crystal and Ryan."

Whilst another reviewer noted: "There are so many nice touches here, every frame and line of dialogue is a treat for moviegoers fed up to the teeth with dazzle and trappings."

Viewers also heaped praise on the film, with one saying: "when harry met sally is my favorite movie because it just gets it. it's not trying too hard to be a grand love story. it just is. the dialogue is sharp. the chemistry is effortless. every scene feels like a conversation i've either had or want to have. it's funny without forcing it. romantic without being cheesy. actually says something about relationships instead of just going through the motions."

Meanwhile, another fan wrote: "Still holds up, year after year (usually around the holidays) this film never disappoints. Wonderful writing, acting and who doesn't love Harry Connick Jr's soundtrack? So good. Classic."

And one admirer simply said: "One of my favorite movies of all time."

When Harry Met Sally remains available to watch on BBC iPlayer until August 31.