Don't Bother to Knock is a solid film despite it being a slower film. Marilyn Monroe was terrific, playing an innocent, lonely girl who quickly turns into the maniac that she is. We get to see just how good of an actor she really was, instead of the sex symbol she was forced to be. Richard Widmark plays a relatively round character as a pilot, who starts out as a man without a heart but proves himself and his girlfriend that he does indeed care about others. The film was not a masterpiece in my eyes by any means, but for a 70 minute film, it was a memorable experience to see Monroe act with such strong emotion.
Roy Ward Baker seemed to enjoy using establishing shots in this film, with the over the shoulder shot being used quite often when characters were having a discussion. Low-key lighting also added to the suspense, especially in the little girls room when Monroe was having her most sinister moments. He utilized medium close shots for her most vulnerable moments, such as the end when the realization is setting it. The editing definitely contributed in making it a solid experience, but Monroe is what really made the film work.
Roy Ward Baker seemed to enjoy using establishing shots in this film, with the over the shoulder shot being used quite often when characters were having a discussion. Low-key lighting also added to the suspense, especially in the little girls room when Monroe was having her most sinister moments. He utilized medium close shots for her most vulnerable moments, such as the end when the realization is setting it. The editing definitely contributed in making it a solid experience, but Monroe is what really made the film work.