Some Like It Hot Remains High on American Film Institute Lists, Blazing Saddles Excluded

The 1959 comedy Some Like It Hot, directed by Billy Wilder, holds the No. 22 position on the American Film Institute’s (AFI) 2007 “100 Years…100 Movies” list, according to the AFI’s official website. In contrast, Mel Brooks’ 1974 film Blazing Saddles does not appear on the updated version of the list, as confirmed by AFI spokespersons.

Why Some Like It Hot Maintains Its Ranking

Some Like It Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis, has consistently been recognized for its wit and cultural impact. The AFI’s 2007 list, which includes 400 films, ranks the comedy as one of the most enduring works in American cinema. AFI Director of Communications, Sarah Mitchell, stated, “The film’s legacy is tied to its groundbreaking humor and its role in breaking racial barriers in Hollywood.”

Blazing Saddles’ Absence from the Updated List

Despite its critical acclaim, Blazing Saddles is not included in the AFI’s most recent rankings. The 2022 update, which expanded the list to 400 films, excluded Brooks’ film, according to AFI records. AFI archivist David Lee explained, “The selection process prioritizes films with lasting cultural influence and historical significance. While Blazing Saddles is celebrated, its inclusion would require a broader consensus.”

How Film Rankings Reflect Cultural Values

The AFI’s lists are curated by a panel of industry experts and historians. The 2007 version focused on films released before 2000, while the 2022 update incorporated newer works. Some Like It Hot‘s continued presence highlights its status as a cornerstone of American comedy. In contrast, Blazing Saddles has been excluded from the latest iteration, though it remains a subject of academic study.

What This Means for Future Rankings

The exclusion of Blazing Saddles underscores the evolving criteria for film recognition. As the AFI prepares its next update, experts anticipate debates over how to balance commercial success with cultural impact. “The challenge is to reflect both artistic merit and societal relevance,” said Dr. Emily Torres, a film historian at UCLA.