Written by Paula Mangrum
Modified & Updated: 10 Oct 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Some Like It Hot is a classic comedy film that has been widely acclaimed as one of the greatest movies of all time. Directed by Billy Wilder and released in 1959, this iconic film stars Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon. Set in the Prohibition era, the story follows the hilarious antics of two musicians who witness a mafia hit and disguise themselves as women to join an all-female band. With its sharp writing, brilliant performances, and memorable moments, Some Like It Hot continues to captivate audiences more than six decades after its release. In this article, we will delve into 48 fascinating facts about this beloved movie, offering you a deeper appreciation for its enduring legacy and its place in cinematic history.
Key Takeaways:
- Some Like It Hot, released in 1959, stars Marilyn Monroe and is a timeless comedy classic that won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design.
- The film explores themes of gender and identity, features iconic one-liners, and showcases Marilyn Monroe’s comedic talent, making it a must-watch for any film lover.
Some Like It Hot was released in 1959
Some Like It Hot, directed by Billy Wilder, was released in 1959 and quickly became a classic in the comedy genre.
Marilyn Monroe starred in the film
The film starred the iconic Marilyn Monroe as Sugar Kane Kowalczyk, a singer and ukulele player who becomes the love interest of two musicians.
Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon played the male leads
Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon played the roles of Joe and Jerry, two musicians on the run from the mob who disguise themselves as women in order to join an all-female band.
The film was a box office success
Some Like It Hot was not only critically acclaimed but also a commercial success, grossing over $40 million worldwide.
The film won an Academy Award
The movie won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design, recognizing the stunning outfits worn by the cast throughout the film.
It showcases Marilyn Monroe’s comedic talent
Some Like It Hot gave Marilyn Monroe the opportunity to showcase her comedic talent, proving that she was not only a talented actress but also a skilled comedian.
Marilyn Monroe’s iconic dress is featured in the film
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Marilyn Monroe’s character performs “I Wanna Be Loved By You” in a form-fitting, white dress, which has become an iconic image in cinematic history.
The film features a memorable closing line
The last line of the film, “Well, nobody’s perfect,” has become one of the most memorable closing lines in movie history.
It was voted as the greatest comedy film of all time
In a survey conducted by the American Film Institute, Some Like It Hot was voted as the greatest comedy film of all time.
The film tackles themes of gender and identity
Some Like It Hot explores the theme of gender and identity through the characters’ cross-dressing and the challenges they face while trying to maintain their disguises.
Marilyn Monroe’s performance was inspired by Carole Lombard
Marilyn Monroe drew inspiration from her idol, Carole Lombard, while portraying Sugar Kane, infusing her performance with a mix of innocence and sensuality.
The film was initially deemed too risqué
The film’s script was initially considered too risqué by the Motion Picture Production Code, but after some revisions, it was approved for production.
The famous train scene was shot in one take
The iconic train scene, where Joe and Jerry meet Sugar for the first time, was shot in one continuous take, showcasing the actors’ improvisational skills.
Billy Wilder insisted on shooting in black and white
Despite the availability of color film at the time, director Billy Wilder insisted on shooting Some Like It Hot in black and white to capture the film noir aesthetic and enhance the comedic elements.
Marilyn Monroe required multiple takes for her scenes
Marilyn Monroe’s perfectionism and struggles with anxiety often led to multiple takes for her scenes, but her dedication paid off in delivering a memorable performance.
The film was based on a French farce
Some Like It Hot was inspired by a French farce titled “Fan-fan la Tulipe,” but the plot was adapted to fit the roaring 1920s setting of Prohibition-era Chicago.
Some Like It Hot was a critical success upon release
The film received positive reviews from critics, who praised the performances, comedic timing, and clever dialogue that kept audiences entertained from start to finish.
The movie features memorable one-liners
Some Like It Hot is known for its memorable one-liners, such as “Well, nobody’s perfect,” “I’m a man!” and “We can’t do this! We’re engaged!” that have become cultural references.
It was ranked as one of the funniest movies of all time
Some Like It Hot consistently ranks among the funniest movies of all time in various lists and polls conducted by film critics and audiences.
Marilyn Monroe’s personal life influenced her performance
Marilyn Monroe’s personal struggles and complicated love life brought depth and vulnerability to her character, Sugar Kane, adding layers to the otherwise comedic role.
The film’s musical score is memorable
The musical score of Some Like It Hot, composed by Adolph Deutsch, perfectly complements the film’s lighthearted and energetic tone.
It was shot on location in California
While the film is set in Chicago, it was mostly shot on location in California, with the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego serving as the backdrop for the majority of scenes.
Tony Curtis mastered the art of impersonation
To further enhance his undercover performance, Tony Curtis mastered the art of impersonating Cary Grant, adding an additional layer of humor to the character of Joe.
The film’s script underwent several revisions
The script of Some Like It Hot went through multiple revisions and changes before it was finalized, ensuring that the comedic timing and dialogues were pitch-perfect.
The film was shot in chronological order
Director Billy Wilder insisted on shooting Some Like It Hot in chronological order to maintain the character development and allow the actors to fully immerse themselves in the story.
Jack Lemmon’s performance was praised by critics
Jack Lemmon’s portrayal of Jerry received widespread acclaim from critics for his impeccable comedic timing and ability to seamlessly switch between male and female personas.
It was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry
In 1989, Some Like It Hot was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.
The film features a cross-dressing montage
During the film, Joe and Jerry go through a montage of learning how to walk, talk, and behave like women, leading to comical situations and misunderstandings.
Marilyn Monroe’s trademark white dress sold for millions
In 2011, the iconic white dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot was sold at an auction for a staggering $4.6 million, making it one of the most expensive movie costumes ever sold.
The film’s title is derived from a popular song
The title “Some Like It Hot” is derived from a popular song of the same name, which was recorded by Marilyn Monroe in 1959 and became one of her signature songs.
It explores themes of deception and self-discovery
Underneath its comedic surface, Some Like It Hot explores themes of deception and self-discovery, as the characters navigate their dual identities and the consequences of their actions.
Marilyn Monroe was pregnant during filming
Marilyn Monroe was reportedly pregnant during the filming of Some Like It Hot, which caused some challenges for the production team in hiding her changing figure.
The film inspired a Broadway musical adaptation
In 1972, Some Like It Hot was adapted into a Broadway musical titled “Sugar,” which followed the same storyline and included memorable musical numbers.
Tony Curtis and Marilyn Monroe had a complicated relationship
During the filming of Some Like It Hot, Tony Curtis and Marilyn Monroe had a complicated relationship, filled with on-set tensions and conflicts.
It was Marilyn Monroe’s last completed film
Some Like It Hot was Marilyn Monroe’s last completed film before her untimely death in 1962, adding a sense of poignancy to her performance.
The film was a turning point in Marilyn Monroe’s career
Some Like It Hot is often considered a turning point in Marilyn Monroe’s career, showcasing her versatility as an actress and breaking away from her previous typecast roles.
The film’s ending was changed during production
The original ending of Some Like It Hot involved Joe revealing his true identity to Sugar, but it was changed to the iconic closing line we know today.
It was remade in various languages
Some Like It Hot has been remade in multiple languages, including the Bollywood film “Garam Masala” and the German film “Otto – Der Neue Film.
The film features a hilarious chase sequence
The film’s climax includes a hilarious and fast-paced chase sequence, involving mobsters, a yacht, and mistaken identities.
It broke gender barriers in the entertainment industry
Some Like It Hot challenged traditional gender roles and pushed boundaries in the entertainment industry, paving the way for future explorations of gender and sexuality in film.
The film’s screenplay is often praised
The screenplay of Some Like It Hot, written by Billy Wilder and I.A.L. Diamond, is often hailed as one of the best in the history of cinema for its sharp wit and comedic timing.
Marilyn Monroe’s performance as Sugar was well-received
Despite her personal struggles and some negative press surrounding the filming process, Marilyn Monroe’s performance as Sugar was highly praised by audiences and critics alike.
Some Like It Hot was an influence on future filmmakers
The innovative storytelling and boundary-pushing humor of Some Like It Hot influenced many filmmakers who followed, inspiring them to push the limits of comedy and satire.
It remains a beloved film today
Decades after its release, Some Like It Hot continues to be adored by audiences around the world, with its timeless humor and captivating performances standing the test of time.
The film’s success boosted Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon’s careers
The success of Some Like It Hot elevated Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon’s careers, solidifying their places as respected and versatile actors in Hollywood.
Marilyn Monroe’s song became a chart-topping hit
The song “I Wanna Be Loved By You,” performed by Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot, became a chart-topping hit and one of her most popular songs.
The film’s comedy is timeless
Some Like It Hot’s comedic elements have stood the test of time, making audiences laugh even after more than six decades since its original release.
It is a must-watch for any film lover
Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema or simply appreciate a great comedy, Some Like It Hot is a must-watch film that will leave you entertained and longing for more.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Some Like It Hot” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its brilliant performances, hilarious comedy, and unforgettable storyline. With a star-studded cast led by Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, this film has become an icon in the world of cinema.The movie’s clever script, expert direction by Billy Wilder, and its exploration of gender roles and sexuality make it a groundbreaking piece of art. From the iconic opening line “Nobody’s perfect” to the jaw-dropping finale, “Some Like It Hot” keeps viewers entertained from start to finish.Whether you’re a fan of comedy, romance, or just great storytelling, “Some Like It Hot” is a must-watch film that will leave you laughing and wanting more. Its influence on pop culture is undeniable, and it continues to inspire and entertain audiences of all generations.So, if you haven’t seen it yet, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy this cinematic masterpiece. You won’t be disappointed.
FAQs
Q: Who starred in the movie “Some Like It Hot”?
A: The movie starred Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon in the leading roles.
Q: When was “Some Like It Hot” released?
A: The film was released on March 29, 1959.
Q: Who directed “Some Like It Hot”?
A: The movie was directed by Billy Wilder.
Q: What is the genre of “Some Like It Hot”?
A: The film is a romantic comedy.
Q: Is “Some Like It Hot” considered a classic?
A: Yes, it is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time and has achieved classic status.
Q: Did Marilyn Monroe sing in the movie?
A: Yes, Marilyn Monroe performed several musical numbers in the film, showcasing her talent as a singer.
Q: Where was “Some Like It Hot” filmed?
A: The movie was primarily filmed in California, including locations like Coronado Beach and Hotel del Coronado.
Q: How long is “Some Like It Hot”?
A: The runtime of the film is approximately 2 hours and 1 minute.
Q: Has “Some Like It Hot” won any awards?
A: Yes, the movie won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design and received numerous other accolades.
Q: Is “Some Like It Hot” suitable for all audiences?
A: The film is generally considered appropriate for most audiences, although it does contain some adult humor and themes.
If you're fascinated by the legendary Marilyn Monroe, her iconic performances, and the glamour of Hollywood's golden age, there's plenty more to explore. Discover little-known Marilyn Monroe facts that shed light on her life and career. For a glimpse into the 1950s music scene, check out our article on Buddy Holly and The Crickets. And if you're intrigued by the world of organized crime, our piece on the movie American Gangster is a must-read.
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