Some Like It Hot (1959)

Some Like It Hot (1959)

Billy Wilder’s Some Like It Hot (1959) is widely considered one of the greatest comedies in cinematic history. Starring Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon, and Marilyn Monroe, the film blends screwball comedy, romance, and crime drama into an impeccably crafted masterpiece. With its razor-sharp wit, pitch-perfect performances, and progressive themes, Some Like It Hot remains as fresh and hilarious today as it was upon its release.

Plot Summary

Set during Prohibition, the film follows struggling musicians Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon), who inadvertently witness the infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. To escape the mobsters hunting them down, they disguise themselves as women and join an all-female band headed to Miami. As "Josephine" and "Daphne," they befriend the band's charming yet naive singer, Sugar Kane (Marilyn Monroe). Complications arise as Joe falls for Sugar while pretending to be a millionaire, and Jerry finds himself pursued by an eccentric, real-life millionaire, Osgood Fielding III (Joe E. Brown). The film builds to a riotous climax, featuring one of the most famous closing lines in cinema history: "Nobody’s perfect."

Performances and Chemistry

The trio of Curtis, Lemmon, and Monroe is a casting triumph. Jack Lemmon’s portrayal of Jerry/Daphne is a comedic tour de force, delivering a performance full of manic energy, impeccable timing, and brilliant physical comedy. Tony Curtis impresses with his dual role, switching effortlessly between his "Josephine" disguise and his faux Cary Grant-inspired millionaire persona. Meanwhile, Marilyn Monroe radiates charm, vulnerability, and warmth as Sugar Kane, proving her comedic prowess and undeniable screen presence.

Supporting performances also shine, particularly Joe E. Brown as Osgood, whose relentless courtship of "Daphne" provides some of the film’s funniest moments. George Raft and the gangsters add an element of suspense, grounding the film’s farcical elements in a believable underworld setting.

Osgood and Daphne

Direction and Cinematic Excellence

Billy Wilder, one of Hollywood’s most accomplished filmmakers, directs with a perfect balance of sharp dialogue and visual comedy. He masterfully plays with gender roles and mistaken identities, creating comedic tension without resorting to cliché. Wilder and co-writer I.A.L. Diamond’s screenplay is packed with fast-paced, witty exchanges that remain endlessly quotable.

Cinematographer Charles Lang enhances the film’s aesthetic with crisp black-and-white visuals, adding a classic Hollywood elegance. This choice also helped disguise the actors' heavy makeup, which was necessary to convincingly transform Curtis and Lemmon into their female personas.

Themes and Cultural Impact

Some Like It Hot was ahead of its time in exploring themes of gender identity, disguise, and fluidity. The film cleverly challenges rigid notions of masculinity and femininity, making it a ground breaking piece of cinema that remains relevant today. It also plays with the idea of love beyond traditional expectations, as seen in Osgood’s acceptance of Daphne’s true identity in the final scene.

The film’s risqué humour and daring subject matter led to initial censorship challenges, but its overwhelming popularity and critical acclaim cemented its status as a trailblazing comedy. It was a box office hit and received six Academy Award nominations, winning for Best Costume Design.

Legacy and Influence

Over six decades later, Some Like It Hot continues to be celebrated as one of the funniest films ever made. It regularly appears on lists of the greatest comedies, with the American Film Institute ranking it #1 on its list of 100 Funniest American Movies. Its influence can be seen in countless films and TV shows that have played with themes of mistaken identity and gender disguise.

The film also played a key role in cementing Marilyn Monroe’s legacy as one of Hollywood’s most talented and enduring icons. Despite her well-documented struggles during production, her performance remains one of the most beloved in her career.

Final Verdict

Some Like It Hot is a flawless comedy that continues to captivate audiences with its brilliant performances, witty script, and progressive humour. Wilder’s direction, combined with the chemistry of its lead actors, ensures its place as one of the greatest films of all time. Whether you're watching it for the first time or revisiting it, Some Like It Hot guarantees a laugh-filled, unforgettable experience.