"Some Like It Hot": Why It's No Longer Funny

The cult comedy Some Like It Hot (original title: Some Like It Hot) skillfully circumvents censorship restrictions and social taboos, appealing to the audience through witty jokes and subtle innuendo. Director Billy Wilder anticipated the sexual revolution in the United States, while simultaneously creating a film that reflects the patriarchal views of its time. In this article, we analyze in detail how and why Wilder achieved such an effect in his work.

This article will familiarize you with key aspects that will help you better understand the topic. We will review the main ideas and offer practical tips to improve your perception and application of information. Read on to gain useful knowledge and recommendations.

What is the film "Some Like It Hot" about?
What is its structure?
How was "Some Like It Hot" made?
Why is it a funny film?
Why is it a scandalous film?
Why is it not funny?

Subscribe to our Telegram channel "How are you?" In this channel, our experts share interesting and scientific materials on psychology and self-development. In addition, every week we publish new selections of films and music that will help you have fun and expand your horizons. Join us and stay up to date with current topics!

Which girls are we talking about?

In 1929, during Prohibition in the United States, saxophonist Joe (Tony Curtis) and bassist Jerry (Jack Lemmon) perform live music at an illegal bar. Suddenly, their performance is interrupted by the arrival of the police, who shut down the establishment and deprive the musicians of their earnings. At that moment, the friends witness the brutal shooting of an informant who gave away the bar's owners, and now the Chicago mafia is hunting them. To save themselves, Joe and Jerry decide to hide in Florida, joining an all-female jazz band. This unexpected turn of events forces them to face new challenges and funny situations that change their lives forever.

Joe transforms into Josephine, and Jerry chooses the name Daphne. Their friend is the famous singer Sugar, played by Marilyn Monroe. In Miami, the "Pretty Sue High Jazz" takes place, where cross-dressing men perform in a posh hotel, creating an atmosphere of gender neutrality. Joe, posing as an oil industrialist, tries to attract Sugar, while Jerry, as Daphne, goes on dates with the wealthy Osgood Fielding III, played by Joe E. Brown. This is a story about masks and pretense, where comedy and romance are intertwined in a captivating plot.

How the plot is structured

The plot is usually divided into three main parts: the introduction, the confrontation, and the denouement. However, Wilder's comedy does not adhere to the classic three-act structure, which highlights the unique style of this director. Wilder is known for his unconventional approach to storytelling, which makes his works unlike traditional films. His creative method opens new horizons in cinematography and draws the audience's attention to the originality of the plot and characters.

The film begins its plot with a thrilling chase scene, typical of the mob film genre. In the scene of the shooting in the garage, reminiscent of the real-life "Valentine's Day massacre", we are introduced to the main characters and their adversaries. This event alludes to the well-known events associated with Al Capone's gang, which dealt with its rivals in a similar manner. Director Billy Wilder masterfully demonstrates the brutality of the masculine world, emphasizing the differences between male and female reality. He does this in a grotesque and exaggerated manner, which prepares the viewer for the comedic development of the plot.

In this scene, Joe and Jerry leave their comfort zone. The moving train symbolizes transformation: although they remain men with their past, they begin to adapt to new conditions. This process of change emphasizes the importance of growth and the willingness to embrace the challenges that life presents.

Still: film "Some Like It Hot" / United Artists / Mirisch Company

Today we can interpret this film as an exploration of sexuality. However, the context of the time and country in which it was made precludes the assumption that director Billy Wilder would have gone so far. In the United States of the 1950s, homosexuality was considered a criminal offense, which imposed certain restrictions on artistic expression. Therefore, the film "Some Like It Hot" can be seen as a situation comedy. However, for modern viewers, it is a cinematic statement about men embracing their femininity within the legally permissible framework. The film raises important questions about gender roles and self-expression, making it relevant even today. Josephine and Daphne arrive in Florida, accepting their new circumstances and discovering romantic possibilities. While Joe consciously chooses his partner, Jerry responds to the millionaire's advances only to support his dominant friend. The characters begin to exist simultaneously in two dimensions and gradually become accustomed to the surreal events unfolding around them.

The plot comes full circle with the arrival of the mafia, and the main characters once again find themselves in a difficult situation. However, this time they have an opportunity to escape, which involves not only physical but also mental salvation. The men embrace their feminine side, sincerely confess their deceptions to their partners, and ride off into the sunset, achieving harmony. This process of self-discovery and liberation from internal conflicts becomes a key element of their transformation, emphasizing the importance of honesty and openness in relationships.

The value of the film by the brilliant director Billy Wilder lies in his ability to intuitively or deliberately raise unexpected themes. In his noir "Double Indemnity," Wilder accurately captured the spirit of the times, recognizing that audiences were bored with the usual image of masculinity. In his film, men are depicted as weak, while women become strong and empathetic, tired of stereotypical macho images. A Polish Jew and Holocaust survivor, Wilder recognized the need to abandon the "tough guy" image with its threats and guns. He did so in a way he could understand—by satirizing archaic stereotypes of male brutality on screen. This approach made the film a landmark in cinema, opening new horizons for the analysis of gender roles and stereotypes in society.

How the Film Was Made

The film "Some Like It Hot" is based on the French comedy "Fanfare of Love" (1931), which was already filmed in Germany in 1951. Despite some doubts about the quality of the original, the director was attracted by the idea of the duality of the characters and the comic situations associated with it. This adaptation has become a landmark work that successfully combines elements of comedy and the musical genre, bringing unique moments to the plot that remain relevant today.

The project was produced by the independent studio Mirisch Brothers, which gave director Billy Wilder complete creative freedom. Wilder noted: "They only asked me about the title of the film, its plot and the cast. You couldn't ask for more freedom." Nevertheless, the Hays Code created certain difficulties for the screenwriters. According to this code, films were prohibited not only from depicting sex, but also from discussing it, as well as from alluding to sexual deviations. The latter could include, for example, male characters wearing women's clothing. Recalling recent events such as the banning of the film "Blackboard Jungle" (1955) and its withdrawal from the Venice Film Festival, Wilder nevertheless decided to take a risk.

Still: film "Some Like It Hot" / United Artists / Mirisch Company

The actors for the roles of Joe and Jerry-Daphne were cast, albeit with some delays, but overall quite quickly. Now the director had to make a key decision – choosing an actress for the role of Darling, the central female character. This decision became an important stage in the casting process, as the dynamics and emotional intensity of the entire performance depended on this choice.

When choosing an actress for the lead role, several key criteria had to be taken into account: she had to be famous, attractive, and have a good voice. In addition, the actress had to be able to convincingly embody the image of a charming, yet sometimes naive, singer. Stars such as Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, and Mitzi Gaynor were considered for casting, but none of them matched the intended image. Fortunately, during the casting process, Wilder received a letter from Marilyn Monroe, which became a turning point in his search for the perfect candidate.

The actress, who had left Hollywood several years earlier for New York, expressed interest in new roles. Although Wilder had promised himself not to work with Monroe after working together on The Seven Year Itch, he changed his mind. Marilyn's popularity proved beneficial for his comedy project. Although the actress herself initially expected a more serious role from a complex and intelligent director, she ultimately agreed to play the familiar character of a dumb blonde.

Marilyn Monroe's contract with Fox studio stipulated that she appear exclusively in color films. Therefore, the director filmed several test scenes in color. While Monroe looked great in color, Curtis and Lemmon were a disaster: their makeup was so overpowering that it was impossible to believe the characters were believable.

It was decided to shoot the film in black and white vintage style of the 1920s, which is fully consistent with Wilder's original concept. This style helps create an authentic atmosphere of that time and emphasize the uniqueness of the plot. This approach makes the film not only visually attractive, but also adds depth and historical significance.

The filming process lasted three months - from August 4 to November 6, 1958. One of the main problems that interfered with the work schedule was the disorganization of the film's main star, Marilyn Monroe. The actress began to be late for filming already in the first month of work, which caused discontent among colleagues. Monroe frequently confused and forgot her lines, which significantly complicated the process. Even the simplest takes were difficult. For example, the scene in which she was supposed to enter a room, open a dresser drawer, and ask, "Where's the bourbon?" required over 50 takes due to the actress's constant mistakes. These on-set difficulties highlight not only the difficulty of working with famous actors but also the importance of a professional approach to filmmaking. The reasons for Marilyn Monroe's behavior were multifaceted. First, she was experiencing her second pregnancy within a year, after which she suffered a miscarriage. Second, her marriage to Arthur Miller was on the verge of collapse, which exacerbated her emotional state, fluctuating between apathy and depression. This situation was exacerbated by alcohol and barbiturate abuse, which negatively impacted her mental health. Yet, despite all the difficulties, Marilyn continued to shine on screen, demonstrating her undeniable talent and charm.

Despite the fact that many lines were spoken repeatedly, and some sounded as if they were prompted or cribbed, she still seemed incredibly authentic in her role. Her performance attracted attention and created a unique atmosphere that emphasized her skill and professionalism.

The filming process turned out to be tiring for the entire crew, but Wilder received the necessary materials, which meant the beginning of the editing of the film and its imminent release on the big screen. Thanks to Monroe, the film was positively received by audiences and critics on the day of the premiere. Currently, this comedy takes a firm place in the list of American classics.

What's funny about the movie "Some Like It Hot"

The humor in the movie "Some Like It Hot" creates an atmosphere of farce, which makes it especially memorable. In the film's noirish opening, it wittily parodies gangster films, presenting familiar tropes from cult detectives like The Maltese Falcon in a ridiculous and exaggerated light. A gang of bandits, unable to capture two defenseless musicians, ultimately fall victim to a silly trap set by their rivals. This unexpected turn of events highlights the film's comedic aspect and demonstrates how traditional genre elements can be reworked into an original and hilarious plot.

The question of where you were at three o'clock on Valentine's Day may seem simple, but it actually opens the door to memories and emotions associated with this special day. Valentine's Day is a time when people celebrate love and affection, so it's important to remember how you spent this moment. Perhaps you were at a romantic dinner, strolling through the park with your loved one, or simply enjoying time with friends. Each of us has our own unique memories associated with this day, and they are what make it so meaningful. Share your impressions and tell us how you celebrated this day.

I listened to the opera "Rigoletto". This work by Giuseppe Verdi is one of the most famous in the world of classical music. Its plot, based on the play by Victor Hugo, touches on themes of revenge, love, and fate. The music of "Rigoletto" is filled with deep emotions and memorable melodies, making it unforgettable for listeners. The opera explores the complex relationships between characters, which adds to its drama and appeal. "Rigoletto" continues to be relevant and popular among opera lovers.

Please provide his name and address.

This is an opera that can be incomprehensible to those unfamiliar with its features. The opera combines music, theater, and visual arts, creating a unique experience for the viewer. Every element, from the vocals to the set design, plays an important role in conveying the emotions and plot. Understanding opera requires an open mind and a willingness to immerse yourself in the world of musical theater, making it accessible not only to connoisseurs but also to those willing to explore.

It was sold in a garage on Clark Street.

I don't know that at all.

Do you know about Deluxe Laundry? This establishment offers a wide range of laundry and clothing care services. Customers can expect high-quality service and personalized attention. Deluxe Laundry uses modern technology and environmentally friendly products, which guarantees the color and structure of fabrics. If you're looking for a reliable place to do your laundry, Deluxe Laundry is an excellent choice.

What exactly are you interested in?

After the shootout at the Clark Street garage, you sent them some leg warmers with blood stains.

I got a cut shaving.

Shaving in leg warmers is an interesting question. Many may think that leg warmers are unrelated to shaving, but style and comfort play an important role in everyday life. Choosing to shave in leg warmers can demonstrate your unique approach to style and self-care. The right clothing choice, even leg warmers, can create an atmosphere of comfort and confidence. It's important to remember that every detail of your look matters.

I even wear leg warmers to bed.

Critics noted that despite its two-hour runtime, the film never feels tiring. A comedic plot based on costume changes, as well as sharp and witty dialogue, keep the narrative moving. At the same time, the characters' absurd lines are spoken with a serious expression, which adds an additional level of humor and irony.

I can't marry you.

Why is this important?

First, I want to emphasize that I am not a blonde.

Don't be afraid of this.

I smoke regularly. It has become a part of my life.

This is not a problem.

I am not going to have children.

Adoption is an important and responsible step that allows you to start a family and provide a child with care and love. This process requires a serious approach and an understanding of both the legal and emotional aspects. By adopting, you not only change a child's life, but also enrich your own. The main thing is to be prepared for new challenges and trials that may arise during the upbringing. Adoption is an opportunity to give children hope for a happy future.

I am a man, and this is an important part of my identity. Being a man means accepting responsibility, demonstrating strength of character, and striving for self-improvement. Every day, I face challenges that require courage and determination. Being a man requires not only physical strength but also emotional resilience, the ability to support and care for loved ones. In today's world, it is important to understand your role and place, as well as strive for harmony in relationships with others. Being a man means setting an example for others and not being afraid to express your feelings and emotions.

Every person has their own shortcomings. These characteristics can manifest themselves in various aspects of life, such as personal qualities, professional skills, or social interactions. Recognizing your shortcomings is an important step toward self-improvement and personal growth. Every shortcoming can be viewed as an opportunity for improvement and development. Understanding your weaknesses helps you set more realistic goals and work more effectively on yourself.

Wordplay, metaphors, and innuendo are important techniques used to circumvent censorship restrictions and convey deep meanings. A study conducted at New York University found that 25% of the dialogue in this film was written using such techniques. This is a significant figure for a 21st-century comedy, demonstrating the creativity of the screenwriters. This approach allowed the topic of sex to be touched upon without even using the word throughout the film. This demonstrates how skillfully complex and sensitive topics can be discussed, circumventing censorship and creating multi-layered content that leaves room for interpretation for the viewer.

Marriage between men is becoming an increasingly common topic in modern society. The reasons why men decide to marry are varied and can include love, support, the desire to start a family, and legal rights. Many couples seek legitimacy for their relationships and protection of their rights, including inheritance and medical decisions. Marriage is also a symbol of commitment and mutual responsibility, which is essential for a strong relationship. It is important to note that each case is unique, and the decision to marry is made taking into account individual circumstances and feelings.

For safety reasons.

The leading acting duo is admirable. Jack Lemmon masterfully uses body language, which allows him to evoke laughter in the audience even without words. A striking example is the dance scene with Osgood, where his character Daphne leads her partner with a flower in her teeth. Tony Curtis is also not far behind, surprising viewers with his transformations from a self-confident woman to a clumsy oil company owner, whose voice is reminiscent of Cary Grant. Their interaction creates a unique comedic atmosphere that remains in the audience's memory.

What's scandalous about the movie "Some Like It Hot"

The original title of the film "Some Like It Hot" already hints at the presence of sexual subtext. This phrase is uttered by Joe, who, disguised as millionaire Shell, "meets" Darling: "Well, I guess some people like it hot. But I prefer classical music." The film is a unique combination of comedy and romance, raising themes of love and attraction in unusual circumstances. Sexual subtext and play with gender roles make "Some Like It Hot" a cinema classic that appeals to audiences across generations.

The character discusses jazz, but the English word "hot" has multiple meanings and is often used in the context of racy topics. The film is replete with such dialogue, and some of the ambiguous phrases have become popular among English speakers. For example, Darling's flirtatious remarks to Shell, such as "Let's throw another log on the fire" or "I always get the fuzzy end of the lollipop," are striking examples of wordplay and humor. These phrases not only emphasize the jazz atmosphere but also demonstrate the subtlety of the language, which combines wit and double meanings.

The most scandalous scenes in the film involve Marilyn Monroe. Viewers were shocked by the yacht date, where Dushechka kissed Shell for a long time, lying on him in an open dress. Today, such drawn-out kisses are perceived as boring and awkward, as reflected in the popular meme: "Guys, can I go already?"

One of the most memorable non-nude erotic scenes is Darling's performance of the song "I Wanna Be Loved by You." Renowned film critic Roger Ebert emphasized in his review that "Monroe and Wilder made this scene one of the most captivating and overtly sexual in the history of cinema." It is also important to note the work of cinematographer Charles Lang, who created lighting that emphasized Monroe's expressive face and focused attention on her figure in a translucent dress. This musical number subsequently became a true calling card of the musical based on the film and continues to attract audiences with its unique combination of music and visual aesthetics.

Conservative viewers expressed dissatisfaction with men in women's dresses. This technique has been seen in European comedies since the time of Shakespeare, for example, in "Twelfth Night", and is perceived fairly well in most cultures. However, some saw elements of transvestism in it, which caused particular outrage among viewers from Kansas. As a result, they achieved a complete ban of the film in their state, highlighting society's sensitivity to issues of gender identity and self-expression.

The Hays Code finally repealed less than a decade later, giving way to the well-known MPAA film rating system. Billy Wilder, at the center of this change, became a pioneer, paving the way for new directions in cinema that gave audiences such iconic films as Tootsie and Mrs. Doubtfire in the 1990s. While Wilder was not the one who completely ended strict censorship, his work played a significant role in undermining the system, becoming a key milestone in the development of cinema and its attitude to artistic freedom.

What's Wrong with Some Like It Hot

Wilder, while avant-garde in his views on men, remained committed to traditional ideas about women of his time. Female characters in the 1950s often faced objectification and stereotypes. The determined and intelligent heroine was not, in most cases, a positive image; Most often, it was the femme fatale—the femme fatale from film noir, devoid of suffering and empathy, posing a threat to men. In contrast, there was the image of the dumb beauty: sexually attractive, eager for marriage, and not disturbing men's peace with displays of critical thinking. These characters highlight the social norms and stereotypes that have influenced the perception of women's roles in film and society.