When Harry Met Sally

Moviemakers, not content to realize profits from theatrical releases, cable rights, and video sales, have come up with a way to mine a little extra change from hit movies--publish the scripts in book form. It would seem that someone who enjoyed the movie might go see it again rather than read it word for word. On the other hand, film students can glean a thing or two from perusing a script, though they'd certainly learn more from Citizen Kane than When Harry Met Sally, a modestly witty, sitcomish look at the age-old question of whether men and women can be friends without being lovers. As an added inducement, the publisher offers an introduction by screenwriter Ephron, who traces the chronology of the movie from its inception to her round of visits to the talk shows. She also shares some of her insights about men and women (as well as those of director Rob Reiner). Considering Ephron's track record in affairs of the heart, her advice on this subject probably rates less attention than her techniques for indicating exteriors and interiors. --Ilene Cooper