RIP Rob Reiner: From The Princess Bride to Sleepless in Seattle, these are his greatest films...
The world was left in shock after learning that legendary director-and-actor Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner had been found dead at their home in Los Angeles on Sunday (14.12.25), victims of an “apparent homicide”, according to police.
RIP Rob Reiner: From The Princess Bride to Sleepless in Seattle, these are his greatest films...
The world was left in shock after learning that legendary director-and-actor Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner had been found dead at their home in Los Angeles on Sunday (14.12.25), victims of an “apparent homicide”, according to police.
Tributes to Rob have flooded in, while former US President Barack Obama thanked the late filmmaker for his “cherished stories”.
Among those stories were Stand By Me, The Princess Bride and Sleepless in Seattle.
These are his greatest films...
1. Stand By Me (1986) – Director
Adapted from a Stephen King novella, Stand By Me showcased Reiner’s ability to handle emotional storytelling with restraint and warmth. Following four boys on a life-changing journey in 1950s Oregon, the film balanced nostalgia, humor and heartbreak. Reiner’s direction elevated a simple premise into a timeless meditation on friendship and growing up, earning widespread critical acclaim.
2. The Princess Bride (1987) – Director
One of cinema’s most beloved fantasy adventures, The Princess Bride blends romance, comedy and fairy-tale magic. Reiner’s direction gave William Goldman’s witty screenplay room to breathe, allowing performances from Cary Elwes, Robin Wright and Mandy Patinkin to shine. Initially modest at the box office, the film - which also starred late wrestling legend Andre the Giant - became a cultural phenomenon, endlessly quoted and cherished across generations.
3. When Harry Met Sally… (1989) – Director
Reiner redefined the romantic comedy with this sharp, honest look at love and friendship. Starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, the film explores whether men and women can ever truly be friends. Nora Ephron’s screenplay, paired with Reiner’s character-driven direction, turned it into a genre-defining classic — and one of the most influential rom-coms ever made.
4. Misery (1990) – Director
Returning to Stephen King territory, Reiner delivered a tense psychological thriller anchored by unforgettable performances. James Caan stars as a novelist held captive by an unhinged superfan, played by Kathy Bates in an Oscar-winning role. Reiner stripped the story down to its raw essentials, proving his versatility beyond comedy and drama.
5. Sleepless in Seattle (1993) – Actor
While Nora Ephron directed this romantic hit, Reiner made a memorable on-screen appearance as Jonah’s warm, supportive uncle. Starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, the film became one of the most successful rom-coms of the 1990s. Reiner’s natural comedic timing added charm, even in a supporting role.
