Some Like It Hot Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray video presentation of "Some Like It Hot" impresses with its respectful and careful remastering, despite relying on a transfer initially produced for the 2006 DVD release. The film, presented in 1080p/AVC-encoded format with a 1.66:1 aspect ratio, offers viewers an engaging high-definition experience. While some minor signs of age—such as occasional white specks and bits of debris—are still present, these do not detract significantly from the overall visual quality. The film’s grain structure remains intact, free from overzealous noise reduction or edge enhancement, ensuring a natural and authentic viewing experience.

The monochromatic gradient is skillfully rendered, showcasing deep blacks, rich grays, and crisp whites with only occasional overexposure, such as in scenes featuring brighter portions on Joe E. Brown’s yacht. Detail across the image is generally strong: cloth and skin textures are finely resolved, though the overall image retains a slightly soft quality. This softness is typical of Hollywood films from the era and does not hinder the viewing experience. Some scenes may lack sharpness, but the image consistently demonstrates strong contrast and depth, giving it an inviting cinematic quality.

While not the most striking classic film on Blu-ray, "Some Like It Hot" holds its own through a solid video presentation that shines particularly in its handling of black levels and contrast. Significant compression artifacts are not noticeable, contributing to an overall clean and visually appealing transfer. Celebrating its 50th anniversary via this Blu-ray release, "Some Like It Hot" garners a commendable high-definition treatment that both fans and new viewers will appreciate.

The audio presentation of the "Some Like It Hot" Blu-ray features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track that capably expands the original mono sound elements without straying too far from its roots. Purists may miss the absence of the original mono track, but there’s no cause for concern as the multi-channel mix remains tasteful and unobtrusive. Key elements such as Adolph Deutsch's score and select sound effects have been given subtle enhancements, making occasional use of the rear channels to immerse the audience without feeling gimmicky. Notably, the overall balance ensures dialogue is clear and requires minimal volume adjustment throughout the film.

Despite being billed as a 5.1 track, it remains largely front-heavy, with minimal but appropriate use of directionality between the front speakers. The dynamic range is fairly muted, and while the bass presence is minimal, it fits the period of the film. The surround channels come into play during specific moments like the shootout sequences and musical numbers, enriching the audio experience subtly yet effectively. Additionally, Marilyn Monroe's songs are a standout, resonating beautifully in this updated audio mix.

The disc also offers multiple audio options including French, German, Castilian, Italian in 5.1 DTS, and Spanish and Portuguese in Mono. It features an extensive range of subtitle options catering to various languages, ensuring accessibility for a diverse audience. Overall, this DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track provides a high-quality auditory experience that respects the film's historical legacy while offering just enough modern enhancement.

The Blu-ray extras for "Some Like It Hot" offer a wealth of material, mostly ported from the previous 2-disc Collector's Edition DVD, albeit with all features in standard definition and Dolby Digital stereo audio. The highlight is the patchwork audio commentary featuring I.A.L. Diamond’s son Paul Diamond, screenwriters Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel, and spliced interviews with Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon. Though the commentary repeats some information across features, Tony Curtis' frank and entertaining remarks stand out. Other notable extras include retrospective documentaries with interviews from cast and crew, and nostalgic discussions featuring Leonard Maltin and Tony Curtis. Despite the repetitive nature of some content, these features provide solid insights for fans.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Commentary by Paul Diamond, Lowell Ganz, Babaloo Mandel, interspersed with interviews with Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon.
• The Making of Some Like It Hot: Comprehensive documentary on the film's production process.
• The Legacy of Some Like It Hot: Examination of the film's lasting impact.
• Nostalgic Look Back Documentary: Leonard Maltin interviews Tony Curtis.
• Memories from the Sweet Sues Featurette: Stories from actresses in the film's band.
• Virtual Hall of Memories: Slideshow of stills and clips set to the movie’s music.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original film trailer in HD.

Billy Wilder's 1959 classic "Some Like It Hot" remains a timeless comedy gem with a unique blend of risqué humor, superb performances, and sophisticated wit. Set in Prohibition-era Chicago, the film boldly opens with gangster tropes; musicians Joe (Tony Curtis) and Jerry (Jack Lemmon) escape a mob massacre by disguising themselves as women, joining an all-girl jazz band to avoid being found. High heels and lipstick in place, the two find themselves in a cascade of comedic mishaps, sharing the stage—and awkward close quarters—with the sultry yet naïve singer Sugar Kane (Marilyn Monroe).

The screenplay, co-authored by Wilder and I.A.L. Diamond, sizzles with sharp, innuendo-laden dialogue and unconventional narrative choices that still resonate today, offering humor rooted in clever subtext rather than explicit jokes. Monroe's portrayal of Sugar adds an effervescent blend of innocence and allure, exemplified in her musical number "I Wanna Be Loved By You", where Wilder's direction tantalizes viewers by partially veiling her sensual appeal. Curtis brings both humorous restraint and flamboyance in his triple roles—Josephine, Junior (a yacht-owning millionaire), and his original self—while Lemmon's frenetic energy as Daphne amplifies the comedic chaos.

The cast’s chemistry elevates "Some Like It Hot" to iconic status, with Monroe effortlessly embodying the earnest yet world-weary performer, Curtis balancing his dual identities with panache, and Lemmon delivering a performance marked by comic brilliance and transformational charisma. The film deftly handles its audacious premise with impeccable timing and enduring charm, ensuring that even decades later, it remains as captivating and hilariously daring as ever.

Billy Wilder's "Some Like It Hot" is a timeless classic that continues to enchant audiences with its brilliant script and unforgettable performances. The Blu-ray edition does justice to this renowned comedy, offering an impressive visual and auditory experience. The high-definition transfer is phenomenal, showcasing crisp and clear images that enhance the film's iconic black-and-white cinematography. The audio is equally commendable, managing to balance the dialogue, music, and sound effects effectively for an immersive viewing experience.

In terms of content, the Blu-ray includes substantial extras, although they largely duplicate those found on the 2-disc Collector's Edition DVD from 2006. The supplements provide ample behind-the-scenes insights and historical context, which fans of the film will greatly appreciate. Whether it's the engaging interviews or the comprehensive documentaries, the additional material adds significant value to an already stellar release. From Tony Curtis’s nuanced performance to Marilyn Monroe's enchanting screen presence, the film’s charm is magnificently preserved in this version.

Comedically, "Some Like It Hot" is about as good as it gets, and you don't have to take my word for it—in 2000, the American Film Institute named it the greatest American comedy of all time. The film looks and sounds fantastic on Blu-ray, but in terms of supplements, this re-release is pretty much a straight port of the 2-disc Collector's Edition DVD from 2006. Still, for fans, an upgrade is definitely in order, and for those that don't yet own the film, this is the version to get. Highly recommended!