You’ll like it ‘Hot’ at Del Coronado

It’s not like you need an excuse to head to the legendary Hotel Del Coronado, but here’s one especially for movie buffs Sept. 18-20. Southern California’s favorite turn-of-the-century hotel will host a weekend of events celebrating the 50th anniversary of “Some Like it Hot,” the 1959 comedy starring Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe. The American Film Institute’s No. 1 rated all-time top comedy was filmed there and helped put The Del and Coronado Island back on the map. The Friday and Saturday of the anniversary fun will give guests a chance to listen to Tony Curtis’ behind-the-scenes stories and to later mingle with the actor, author and artist for an autograph or to buy his book or artworks. The film’s producer, Walter Mirisch, will talk about making the film. Laurence Maslon, author of a new book about the movie, will debunk myths and share tales. Original members of the girls’ band in the movie will attend. In the 1950s, the hotel famous for its broad beach, old-fashioned white wood buildings and red roof had passed through several threats of closure or demolition and a fat string of owners. It was not exactly slipping into decay but visitation figures were down when film director Billy Wilder nabbed a bargain price for filming there in 1958. By contrast, the hotel that has retained its Victorian charm while adding modern touches like a spa, upscale shops, restaurants and an enclave of cottages and villas swarms with guests today. Read the entire article here.