Everybody Loves Nora

Nora Ephron changed the way Hollywood depicted love stories. Sinead Stubbins explores why her work is still so influential

- Elle McClure

I have this vision of my ideal self-hosting a lively dinner party attended by a charismatic crew of famous writers, directors and artists. This fantasy gathering takes place in my New York apartment, furnished with cream couches that never get dirty. I’m wearing fabulously soft, brown loafers. I say witty things that are cutting, but not so cutting that people remark to each other “whoa, that was mean!” on their way home.

This fantasy is not mine alone. Actually, it has been entirely informed by the work of Nora Ephron – the journalist, screenwriter, novelist, playwright, filmmaker and creative magnet, who was the force behind the modern romantic comedy. This year, two of her most iconic films, Sleepless In Seattle and You’ve Got Mail, celebrate their 25th and 20th anniversaries respectively. But why is her work still so meaningful?

“Ephron’s writing is special because it’s fearless,” says Michelle Law, co-writer and co-creator of SBS’ Homecoming Queens and Ephron disciple. “She didn’t shy away from being silly and fun, which people in the entertainment industry can look down upon as ‘too female’ or lowbrow.”