Great Scene: “When Harry Met Sally…”
An excellent example of how to handle exposition in a scene.
The movie: When Harry Met Sally…, the terrific 1989 romantic comedy written by the late great Nora Ephron.
And the scene from the movie:
This is a perfect example not only of exposition through conflict, but also a BOB (Bit of Business). The BOB is the coffee table. That’s the device around which the entire scene is framed. And what Harry’s character does in citing it, books, and an “eight dollar plate” highlights the value of another narrative device: talismans. All of those physical objects are symbolically meaningful in that they represent for Harry — in the moment — the hurt and anger he feels about his failed marriage.
It’s a classic scene by such an incredible writer Nora Ephron, using conflict, revelation, and humor to transform a talking heads exposition scene into something entertaining.
Who loves When Harry Met Sally…? Who misses Nora Ephron?
For more articles in the Great Scene series, go here.
