Released in 1959, Some Like It Hot is a classic American comedy directed by Billy Wilder. Starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, the film follows two musicians who disguise themselves as women to escape from mobsters after witnessing a crime. The movie is celebrated for its witty dialogue , dynamic performances, and innovative blend of humor and suspense.
1. Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Joe and Jerry dressing as women to avoid gangsters Dramatic Irony : Audience knows their real identity Spats Colombo’s henchmen discussing “no women allowed” rule at the convention Situational Irony : Unaware they are talking to disguised men
2. Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The constant jazz music throughout the film Symbolizes the chaos and unpredictability of the characters’ lives Osgood’s yacht Symbolizes freedom and escape for Joe and Jerry
3. Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example The opening scene with the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Foreshadows the danger and violence Joe and Jerry will encounter Joe’s repeated mentions of his love for sugar Foreshadows his eventual pursuit of Sugar Kane
4. Satire
Movie Scene Device Example Joe and Jerry’s cross-dressing Satire on gender roles and societal normsWealthy old men pursuing younger women Satire on age and romance in high society
5. Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example Jerry’s exaggerated reactions to their situation Exaggeration for comedic effect Joe’s over-the-top romantic gestures towards Sugar Highlights his desperation and infatuation
6. Puns
Movie Scene Device Example “We’re up the creek and you don’t even have a paddle” Wordplay : playing on the idiom “I’m a girl, I’m a girl, I’m a girl” – Jerry Wordplay on Jerry’s identity crisis
7. Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example “This is a banana republic” Comparing the chaotic situation to a politically unstable country “You’re the cream in my coffee” Metaphor for affection and importance
8. Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example References to prohibition era Allusion to 1920s America and its societal issuesSugar Kane’s name Allusion to the temptations and sweetness of love
9. Simile
Movie Scene Device Example “Like Jell-O on springs” – describing Sugar’s movement Simile to emphasize her attractiveness“Like a rat in a trap” – Jerry feeling trapped Simile to show his desperation
10. Double Entendre
Movie Scene Device Example “Well, nobody’s perfect” Humorous double meaning about gender and acceptance Jerry’s various comments about his “feminine” problems Double meaning about the difficulties of cross-dressing
Character Studies
Joe / Josephine
Device Explanation Irony His disguise as a woman contrasts sharply with his actual flirtatious nature. Satire His character mocks the superficiality of gender roles and romantic pursuits.
Jerry / Daphne
Device Explanation Hyperbole His exaggerated reactions enhance the comedic aspects of his situation. Double Entendre His dialogues often carry multiple meanings, reflecting his inner conflict .
Sugar Kane
Device Explanation Symbolism Represents the pursuit of happiness and escape from past troubles. Metaphor Often depicted as the “sweet” temptation Joe cannot resist.
Osgood Fielding III
Device Explanation Irony His carefree nature ironically contrasts with the serious predicaments around him. Simile His simplistic view of love and romance is often likened to childlike innocence.
Character Dynamics
The relationship between Joe and Jerry drives much of the film’s humor and plot , as their dynamic showcases themes of friendship, loyalty, and survival under pressure. Their interactions with Sugar Kane and Osgood Fielding III further complicate their journey, revealing deeper themes of love, identity, and societal expectations.
Identity and Disguise
Device Explanation Irony The characters’ disguises lead to situations where their true selves are hidden. Double Entendre Many lines have hidden meanings, playing with the theme of identity.
Gender Roles
Device Explanation Satire Cross-dressing highlights and mocks traditional gender roles. Hyperbole Exaggerated gender performances critique societal norms.
Love and Deception
Device Explanation Metaphor Relationships in the film are often metaphors for escape and fulfillment. Symbolism Various objects (e.g., the yacht) symbolize freedom and new beginnings.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Irony Visual Gags The visual humor contrasts with the characters’ serious situations. Symbolism Color Schemes Specific colors symbolize different themes, such as freedom or danger. Satire Costume Design Outlandish costumes exaggerate and mock societal expectations. Hyperbole Sound Effects Exaggerated sound effects enhance the comedic impact of certain scenes.
Scene 1: Joe and Jerry Witness the Massacre
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Scene 2: Joe and Jerry Join the All-Girls Band
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Literary Devices : Satire , Hyperbole Explanation : Their exaggerated femininity critiques gender roles, and the satirical elements poke fun at societal norms.
Scene 3: The Final Scene on Osgood’s Yacht
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Breakdown :
Literary Devices : Double Entendre , Irony Explanation : The iconic line “Well, nobody’s perfect” is a humorous, ironic twist that encapsulates the film’s playful treatment of identity and acceptance.
Interactive Quiz :
What literary device is most evident in Joe and Jerry’s disguises?
How does the film use hyperbole in Jerry’s character?
A) To emphasize his masculinity
B) To enhance comedic effect
C) To criticize societal norms
D) To show his fearlessness
Which theme is highlighted by the constant jazz music?
A) Love and Romance
B) Gender Roles
C) Chaos and Unpredictability
D) Wealth and Power
Answers: 1) B, 2) B, 3) C
