“Some Like It Hot,” a comedic masterpiece starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, wasn’t primarily filmed in the sunny paradise it depicts. Instead, the iconic film’s key scenes unfolded mainly in California, cleverly disguising the Golden State as the Florida beaches and hotels of the Prohibition era.
The Illusion of Florida: Delving into the Real Locations
While the storyline transports viewers to the sun-kissed beaches of Miami, the reality is that the vast majority of exterior shots were filmed in and around the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego, California. This stunning beachfront resort, with its distinctive Victorian architecture, became the perfect stand-in for the Seminole Ritz Hotel, the fictional setting for much of the film’s hilarious antics.
The Hotel del Coronado offered more than just a visually appealing facade. Its proximity to Hollywood and its capacity to accommodate a large cast and crew made it an ideal location from a logistical standpoint. Moreover, the hotel’s inherent grandeur lent itself well to the opulent atmosphere that director Billy Wilder sought to create.
For the scenes set in Chicago, depicting the infamous St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, the production returned to Hollywood soundstages. These controlled environments provided the necessary conditions for recreating the chaotic and violent events while ensuring the safety of the actors and crew. Further interior scenes, including those inside the train and the hotel rooms, were also filmed on these meticulously constructed sets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “Some Like It Hot” Filming Locations
Below, we address some common queries regarding the filming locations of “Some Like It Hot,” providing a more comprehensive understanding of the choices and challenges involved in bringing this timeless comedy to the screen.
H3: Was “Some Like It Hot” Actually Filmed in Florida?
No. Despite the movie’s setting in Florida, the primary filming location was in California, specifically the Hotel del Coronado near San Diego. Some minor scenes might have included stock footage or brief shots filmed elsewhere, but the core of the “Florida” experience was a Californian creation.
H3: Why Was the Hotel del Coronado Chosen as the Primary Location?
The Hotel del Coronado offered a combination of aesthetic appeal and logistical advantages. Its Victorian architecture perfectly matched the desired opulent Florida setting, while its proximity to Hollywood and ample space made it ideal for a large-scale production.
H3: Were Any Other Locations in San Diego Used Besides the Hotel del Coronado?
While the Hotel del Coronado served as the focal point, other areas in the San Diego region might have been used for supplementary shots, although these are less widely documented. The focus remained predominantly on the hotel and its surroundings to maintain consistency.
H3: Where Were the Interior Scenes Filmed?
The majority of interior scenes, including those aboard the train and within the hotel rooms, were filmed on soundstages in Hollywood. These allowed for greater control over lighting, sound, and set design, essential for creating the desired comedic effect.
H3: How Did They Recreate the Chicago Scenes?
The Chicago scenes, particularly those depicting the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre, were recreated on Hollywood soundstages. This allowed the filmmakers to meticulously construct the sets and stage the scenes in a safe and controlled environment.
H3: Did Marilyn Monroe Enjoy Filming at the Hotel del Coronado?
While the Hotel del Coronado is an iconic location, Marilyn Monroe’s experience filming “Some Like It Hot” was reportedly challenging. She faced personal and professional difficulties during the production, which affected the filming schedule and overall atmosphere.
H3: Is the Hotel del Coronado Still a Popular Tourist Destination?
Yes, the Hotel del Coronado remains a popular tourist destination. Its stunning architecture, beachfront location, and association with “Some Like It Hot” draw visitors from around the world. The hotel often capitalizes on its cinematic history, offering tours and themed events.
H3: Can You Visit the Exact Spots Where Specific Scenes Were Filmed?
While the hotel has undergone renovations since 1959, many of the exterior areas used in filming are still recognizable. Visitors can explore the beach, the main entrance, and other areas featured in the movie, allowing them to connect with the film’s iconic moments. Some interior spaces have been remodeled.
H3: How Much Did It Cost to Film at the Hotel del Coronado?
The exact cost of filming at the Hotel del Coronado for “Some Like It Hot” is difficult to ascertain precisely, as it would have been factored into the overall production budget. However, securing such a prominent location would undoubtedly have been a significant expense.
H3: What Challenges Did the Filmmakers Face During Location Scouting?
One of the biggest challenges would have been finding a location that authentically resembled the Florida of the Prohibition era. The Hotel del Coronado, with its Victorian architecture and beachfront setting, provided a close enough match, albeit with some creative staging and set dressing.
H3: Did the Filming Location Impact the Movie’s Success?
The Hotel del Coronado undoubtedly contributed to the movie’s success. Its grandeur and picturesque setting enhanced the visual appeal of the film and added to the overall comedic effect. The location became intrinsically linked to the film’s identity.
H3: Are There Any Behind-the-Scenes Photos or Videos Showing the Filming at the Hotel del Coronado?
Yes, numerous behind-the-scenes photos and videos exist, showcasing the cast and crew at work at the Hotel del Coronado. These provide a fascinating glimpse into the filmmaking process and highlight the transformation of the California location into the fictional Seminole Ritz Hotel. These resources are readily available through online searches and documentaries.
Beyond the Beach: The Magic of Hollywood
While the Hotel del Coronado provided the stunning backdrop for “Some Like It Hot,” it’s essential to remember the critical role played by the Hollywood soundstages. These controlled environments allowed for the creation of intricate sets and the seamless execution of complex scenes, contributing significantly to the movie’s overall comedic brilliance. The combination of real-world locations and expertly crafted studio sets resulted in a visually captivating and unforgettable cinematic experience. The film’s masterful use of location, combined with superb acting and direction, cemented its place in cinematic history. The illusion of Florida, expertly crafted in California, became an enduring symbol of the film’s timeless appeal.