Some Like It Hot (1959) Review

Some Like It Hot (1959) is a classic comedy film directed by Billy Wilder, starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon. The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest comedies ever made and has become a cultural touchstone, with its iconic scenes and memorable dialogue still being referenced in popular culture today.

The film follows the misadventures of two struggling musicians, Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon), who witness a mob hit and must go into hiding. To evade the mobsters, they dress up as women and join an all-female band headed to Florida. Along the way, they meet Sugar Kane (Marilyn Monroe), a beautiful but naive singer, and both fall for her while trying to maintain their disguises.

One of the film's greatest strengths is its impeccable writing. The script, co-written by Wilder and I.A.L. Diamond, is a masterclass in comedic timing and wordplay. The film's rapid-fire dialogue is filled with clever puns, double entendres, and hilarious one-liners. The film's humor is never mean-spirited, and the jokes never feel forced or contrived.

The film's performances are also top-notch. Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon both deliver masterful comedic performances as the bumbling musicians, with Curtis in particular showing off his skills as a leading man. Marilyn Monroe is the film's undeniable star, however, and her portrayal of Sugar Kane is one of her most iconic roles. Monroe's natural charisma and impeccable comic timing are on full display, and her singing performances are a highlight of the film.

The film's direction is also noteworthy. Wilder's use of camera angles and shot composition add to the film's comedic impact, and his pacing and timing are expertly executed. The film's use of color and costume design is also impressive, with the vibrant colors of the all-female band's outfits adding to the film's sense of fun and frivolity.

Despite its status as a comedy classic, Some Like It Hot also has a surprising amount of depth and complexity. The film touches on themes of gender identity and sexuality, with the protagonists struggling to navigate their newfound femininity and the societal expectations that come with it. The film's ending, which features one of the most famous closing lines in cinema history, is a masterful blend of comedy and romance, and provides a satisfying resolution to the film's various plot threads.

One of the film's most memorable scenes is the "I Want to Be Loved By You" sequence, in which Monroe performs the iconic song while dressed in a form-fitting white dress. The scene is a testament to Monroe's star power and sex appeal, and has become one of the most iconic moments in cinema history.

Another standout aspect of the film is its score, which was composed by Adolph Deutsch. The film's jazzy soundtrack perfectly complements the film's tone, and the use of music throughout the film is expertly executed, adding to the film's comedic impact.

Some Like It Hot (1959) is a film that has had a lasting impact on popular culture. In addition to its iconic performances and memorable scenes, the film has been referenced in countless movies, TV shows, and even songs over the years. The film's influence can be seen in everything from the way that drag performers are depicted in media to the use of cross-dressing as a comedic device.

The film's production was not without its challenges. Marilyn Monroe's well-known struggles on set, including her frequent lateness and difficulty remembering her lines, led to tension between her and the film's director, Billy Wilder. However, despite these challenges, Monroe's performance in the film remains one of her most beloved and enduring.

In conclusion, Some Like It Hot is a timeless classic of comedy cinema that still resonates with audiences today. The film's expertly crafted writing, performances, direction, and technical aspects all come together to create a film that is both hilarious and heartfelt. With its iconic characters, memorable scenes, and enduring themes, Some Like It Hot is a must-watch for any film lover, and a true testament to the enduring power of great comedy.