“Some Like It Hot” (1959) is a classic screwball comedy film directed by Billy Wilder. The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest comedies in cinematic history, showcasing Marilyn Monroe in one of her most iconic roles alongside Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon. The film combines humor, romance, and a touch of cross-dressing, all set against the backdrop of the Prohibition era.
Film Details:
- Title: Some Like It Hot
- Release Year: 1959
- Genre: Screwball Comedy
- Director: Billy Wilder
- Screenplay: Billy Wilder and I.A. L. Diamond
- Cinematography: Charles Lang
- Production Company: United Artists
- Runtime: 121 minutes
Main Cast:
- Marilyn Monroe as Sugar Kane Kowalczyk
- Tony Curtis as Joe/Josephine
- Jack Lemmon as Jerry/Daphne
- George Raft as Spats Colombo
- Patricia Hitchcock as the Sweet Sue
- Joe E. Brown as Osgood Fielding III
Plot Summary:
Set in 1929 Chicago, the story follows two musicians, Joe (Curtis) and Jerry (Lemmon), who witness a mob hit and must go into hiding to avoid the gangsters. To escape, they disguise themselves as women and join an all-female band led by the beautiful Sugar Kane (Monroe), who is desperately seeking a rich man to support her dreams of becoming a successful singer.
As “Josephine” (Curtis) and “Daphne” (Lemmon) navigate life in the all-women band, they encounter various comedic situations, especially as they try to maintain their disguises while falling for Sugar. Sugar is oblivious to their true identities and becomes enamored with “Joe,” who must juggle his feelings for her with the complications of his disguise. Meanwhile, Jerry attracts the attention of the wealthy suitor, Osgood Fielding III (Brown), leading to further hilarity.
The film culminates in a series of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and comedic twists, ultimately leading to a memorable and iconic finale.
Marilyn Monroe’s Role:
Monroe’s performance as Sugar Kane is charming and delightful, showcasing her comedic timing, singing talent, and undeniable screen presence. Sugar is portrayed as a bubbly, yet vulnerable character, desperately seeking love and stability. Monroe’s chemistry with both Curtis and Lemmon adds to the film’s appeal, and her rendition of the song “I Wanna Be Loved by You” is a standout moment.
Themes:
- Identity and Disguise: The film explores themes of identity, particularly through the characters’ disguises and the fluidity of gender roles in comedic contexts.
- Desire and Love: Love is portrayed in various forms throughout the film, highlighting the complexities of romantic attraction and desire across different characters.
- Comedy and Social Commentary: The film uses humor to comment on societal norms, gender expectations, and the pursuit of happiness, all while entertaining audiences with its zany plot.
Reception:
“Some Like It Hot” was a critical and commercial success, receiving multiple Academy Award nominations, including Best Actor for Lemmon. The film has been lauded for its sharp wit, memorable performances, and innovative approach to comedy. It has since become a cultural landmark, frequently cited in discussions of the greatest films of all time.
Legacy:
The film continues to be celebrated for its timeless humor and Monroe’s iconic performance. “Some Like It Hot” has influenced countless comedies that followed and remains a significant work in Marilyn Monroe’s filmography. It highlights her ability to blend comedy and allure, solidifying her status as a legendary figure in Hollywood.
Fun Fact:
“Some Like It Hot” is renowned for its bold approach to gender and sexuality for its time. The film features a memorable scene where Joe (Curtis) famously declares, “Nobody’s perfect” in the closing moments, which has become one of cinema’s most quoted lines. Additionally, Monroe’s costume designer, William Travilla, created the iconic white dress she wears in the film, which has since become emblematic of her style and the film itself. The film’s mix of humor, romance, and social commentary has allowed it to remain relevant and beloved by audiences for decades.
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