Some Like It Hot

 

Some Like It Hot is a romantic comedy starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon, The film follows Joe and Jerry, played by Curtis and Lemmon respectively, two down-on-their-luck jazz musicians who witness a mob hit. Fearing for their lives, they flee Chicago disguised as women and join an all-female band heading for Florida.

Interestingly enough, the choice to do black-and-white cinematography in the late 1950s, was made to ensure the believability of the men's disguises, and to give it a timeless feel to the 1920s set film. I think the choice were able to accomplish both of those aspects.

When this film was realized in 1959 it pushed boundaries which was commendable. It challenged societal norms by showcasing men experiencing the objectification typically faced by women. This theme is one of the reasons the film was embraced by the LGBTQ+ community. While not explicitly stated, some interpreted the film's cross-dressing and homoerotic subtext as a covert nod to a marginalized identity.

I thought that the cast was entertaining and funny. Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon, and Marilyn Monroe worked well off of one another, delivering iconic performances that have cemented the film's place in comedy history. One area where the film fell short however was its lack of racial diversity. A more inclusive cast would have further enriched the narrative and better reflected the realities of the time period.

Ultimately, Some Like It Hot was a comedic masterpiece with a surprising legacy. It's a film you can appreciate for its slapstick humor and iconic performances. With its progressive themes it was cultural touchstone that continues to spark conversation decades after its release.