Rob Reiner -- Defining Moments

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Rob Reiner on Making Movies That Last

Director-producer Rob Reiner -- who brought us such classic romantic comedies as 'When Harry Met Sally,' 'Princess Bride' and 'Sleepless in Seattle' -- was throwing 'It's a Wonderful Life' viewing parties long before it became a holiday must-see. Watching the 1946 film for the first time was the defining moment in pop culture that affected him most. And he loves it because it's "about celebrating and embracing the wonder of life."

'It's a Wonderful Life' is about celebrating life, and embracing the wonder of life, and being happy you're alive.

Having watched the film at least 40 times, Reiner says, "as I've gotten older, that movie has gained more and more meaning for me. It's great that you can watch a movie where, the movie doesn't change, but you change and by you changing, the movie becomes a deeper experience for you."

The beloved director also identifies what it takes for a movie to captivate its audience: 'If you've touched on something that is basic to the human experience, that everyone can relate to and that touches them very deeply, that's the thing that gets people to remember something. And I hope someday that I've made movies that will be that for people.'

Reiner is very clear about wanting to create timeless work, telling us, 'I want to make movies that last!" Well, Mr. Reiner, it's been 21 years since Harry met Sally ... and we still can't get enough.

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