


Don't Bother to Knock
An airline pilot pursues a live-in babysitter at his hotel and gradually realizes she is not as stable as perhaps she should be.
Insights
Plot Summary
A mentally unstable nightclub singer, Ruby, is left in charge of a wealthy businessman's young daughter, Melody, while he is away. Ruby's dangerous ex-lover, a criminal named Stan, learns of this arrangement and infiltrates the apartment with the intention of using Melody as a pawn to get to the businessman's money. As Stan's menacing presence escalates, Ruby finds herself in a desperate struggle to protect the child and confront her own inner demons.
Critical Reception
Don't Bother to Knock received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics acknowledged Marilyn Monroe's compelling performance in a darker, more complex role than she was typically known for, and Richard Widmark's chilling portrayal of a menacing villain. While some found the plot a bit convoluted, the film's suspenseful atmosphere and strong acting were generally praised.
What Reviewers Say
- Marilyn Monroe delivers a surprisingly effective performance in a departure from her usual roles.
- Richard Widmark is menacing as the ruthless criminal.
- The film successfully builds suspense and a claustrophobic atmosphere.
Google audience: Audience reception data is not readily available.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
This film marked a significant dramatic role for Marilyn Monroe, showcasing her ability to portray darker, more complex characters beyond her typical blonde bombshell persona.
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TMDB Reviews
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