Marilyn Monroe’s Timeless Charm: Why Some Like It Hot Still Reigns as Hollywood’s Funniest Movie After 70 Years

Marilyn Monroe’s Some Like It Hot remains not only her most iconic film but one of the funniest movies ever made in Hollywood. Directed by Billy Wilder and released in 1959, Some Like It Hot continues to captivate audiences with its blend of slapstick humor, wit, and absurdity, making it a timeless classic in the realm of comedy. Despite the nearly 70 years that have passed since its release, the film has maintained its place as an essential piece of cinema history, resonating with both nostalgic fans and new generations alike.

A Classic Comedy with Enduring Appeal

Some Like It Hot was a massive commercial success, earning six Academy Award nominations and winning one. The film’s charm lies in its broad approach to comedy, blending various comedic elements seamlessly. Set in Prohibition-era Chicago, the plot follows two jazz musicians, Joe and Jerry, who, after witnessing a mobster’s shooting, escape disguised as women and join an all-female band. As they slip into their new identities, Joe, who falls for the band’s star, Sugar (played by Marilyn Monroe), navigates a series of humorous situations that challenge both his disguise and his growing feelings for her.

The film’s appeal lies in its blend of wit, slapstick, screwball comedy, and dark humor. The interplay between characters like Joe and Jerry, disguised as Josephine and Daphne, adds a layer of visual comedy while also playing with gender conventions. The film never shies away from absurdity, including a sequence where gangsters resolve a major plotline by simply killing off their antagonists without much fuss. In the hands of Wilder and his cast, the balance between farcical humor and thoughtful social commentary makes Some Like It Hot not only hysterically funny but also surprisingly progressive for its time.

The Heart of the Comedy: Strong Characters and Relatable Desperation

What sets Some Like It Hot apart from many other comedies is that it never sacrifices character for humor. The film’s heart lies in its deeply human portrayal of its main characters. Joe, Jerry, and Sugar begin as caricatures but, through stellar performances, particularly from Monroe, they evolve into more relatable and endearing figures. Even when they make selfish decisions, their desperation and vulnerability make them instantly likable.

Monroe’s portrayal of Sugar, the optimistic and love-stricken singer, brings depth to the character, adding a romantic and desperate edge to the otherwise silly narrative. Monroe, despite the reported tensions on set, shines with charm and sincerity, and her performance gives the film a grounded emotional core. Her search for a good man, Joe’s desire to be that man, and Jerry’s aim to escape a troublesome marriage provide relatable motivations that make their hijinks all the more engaging.

A Memorable Finale That Continues to Amaze

The ending of Some Like It Hot is often hailed as one of the greatest in film history. After their escapades aboard Osgood’s boat, the movie wraps up in a way that balances humor and romance perfectly. Joe and Sugar share a sweet kiss, tying together their journey with both humor and heart. Meanwhile, Jerry’s attempt to avoid his impending marriage to Osgood leads to one of the film’s most memorable comedic moments: Osgood’s acceptance of Jerry’s true identity as a man in disguise. This surprising and humorous twist is a perfect resolution to the film’s over-the-top premise.

This ending encapsulates everything that makes Some Like It Hot so special: it is funny, romantic, and clever, effortlessly blending the movie’s chaotic comedic elements with heartfelt character moments. It is this balance of absurdity and sincerity that has made Some Like It Hot stand the test of time and remain a beloved classic.

Why Some Like It Hot Endures

While Some Like It Hot is historically significant for many reasons, its enduring success can be attributed to one key factor: it is simply a masterclass in comedy. The film combines various comedic styles—slapstick, wit, screwball, and dark humor—while keeping the characters grounded in relatable emotions. Marilyn Monroe’s performance, along with those of Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon, elevates the material, transforming what could have been a silly farce into a cinematic triumph.

Moreover, the film’s groundbreaking approach to gender roles and relationships was ahead of its time, making it not only funny but also thought-provoking. Its ability to balance humor with deeper themes—like the exploration of identity and societal expectations—has allowed Some Like It Hot to resonate with audiences for decades.

As it approaches its 70th anniversary, Some Like It Hot remains a shining example of how comedy can transcend time. The film continues to delight audiences with its timeless humor, lovable characters, and unforgettable performances, proving that the classics never go out of style.