Nora Ephron's Reputation (02:08)

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Nora Ephron lets the characters in her films tell their own stories. Actresses like Meg Ryan and Meryl Streep have worked with her on several projects.

Ephron - Reporter, Columnist, Screenwriter (04:04)

Ephron was born in 1941 in New York City. Being a New Yorker was an essential aspect of her personality though she had moved to Beverly Hills as an infant with her screenwriter parents. She graduated from Wellesley College.

"When Harry Met Sally" (06:06)

Ephron decided to become a director to have control over her screenplays. "This Is My Life" was her directorial debut. She realistically portrayed mother/daughter relationships.

"Sleepless in Seattle" (04:57)

It was Ephron's idea to cast Ryan and Tom Hanks in this romantic comedy. It is a tribute to "An Affair to Remember." It was a success and made her an A-List director/writer.

"Mixed Nuts" (03:16)

This film stars Madeline Kahn, Juliette Lewis, Steve Martin, and Adam Sandler, It is a cynical Christmas comedy.

"Michael" (03:29)

Andie MacDowell plays an "angel expert" who is confused by Archangel John Travolta.

"You've Got Mail" (05:48)

The characters played by Hanks and Ryan hate each other in the real world, but have a budding romance online. Audiences love the chemistry between the two actors.

"Bewitched" (03:50)

Nicole Kidman, Will Ferrell, and Michael Caine star in this 2005 comedy about a powerful witch and a failing actor.

"Julie & Julia" (07:51)

Streep starred in this 2009 film about Julia Child and a determined blogger. Ephron experimented with using food to illustrate a woman's struggle. Ephron was hiding her cancer diagnosis during production.

Credits: Nora Ephron (The Directors, Season 7) (00:35)

Credits: Nora Ephron (The Directors, Season 7)