by Monroe fans to contain some of her best acting. Film critic Dennis Schwartz gave the film a mostly positive 2011 review, and seems to be captured by Monroe's performance. He wrote, "Wacko psychological thriller, set entirely in a NYC hotel, and helmed without urgency by Roy Ward Baker (The Vault of Horror/Asylum/Scars of Dracula). It lacks emotional depth, but is diverting as it gives off nervous energy and remains watchable throughout. Marilyn Monroe was in 12 previous films, but this was her first co-starring headliner role. Playing someone mentally deranged, Marilyn wonderfully channels how her mentally troubled mom acted and gives a believable performance (she's the best reason for seeing this forgettable pic). It's based on a novel by Charlotte Armstrong and is written by Daniel Taradash." Don't Bother to Knock has a rare 100% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, although this is based on only 11 reviews as of 2021. Recognition The film was nominated for consideration by the American Film Institute on its 2001 list AFI's 100 Years...100 Thrills. References External links 1952 films 1950s psychological thriller films 20th Century Fox films American psychological thriller films American black-and-white films Film noir Films based on American novels Films directed by Roy Ward Baker Films set in hotels Films set in New York City Films based on works by Charlotte Armstrong 1950s English-language films 1950s American films