Top 10 films starring by Marilyn Monroe

 

This is a Top 10 list of films starring Marilyn Monroe — or more accurately, a Top 10 of films in which Marilyn plays a leading role, even if she’s not necessarily the absolute main protagonist.
Throughout her career, Marilyn appeared in a total of 29 films, and in 13 of them she had a leading role. Since this is a Top 10, three of those films will inevitably be left out. It’s important to note that this ranking focuses solely on the films where Marilyn had a main role, so titles like The Asphalt Jungle, All About Eve, Clash by Night, or Monkey Business —where her presence was secondary but still memorable— are excluded from this list.

I also want to clarify that this Top 10 is about the films themselves, not strictly about Marilyn’s performance. In other words, it’s not a ranking of how well she acted or how much screen time she had, but rather an evaluation of the movies as complete works. I should also mention that I’ve seen all of Marilyn Monroe’s films, both her leading and supporting roles, several of them multiple times. Still, this Top 10 represents only my personal opinion. Everyone has different tastes and preferences depending on the genres they enjoy most, so this list should be taken as a subjective perspective, not a universal truth.

10 Don´t Bother to Knok (1952)

Don’t Bother to Knock is a psychological thriller directed by Roy Ward Baker and written by Daniel Taradash, starring Richard Widmark and Marilyn Monroe. The story follows Jed, a pilot who checks into a hotel where his ex-girlfriend works, hoping to win her back. At the same time, a young woman named Nell, recently released from a psychiatric hospital, starts working at the same hotel as a babysitter. After being rejected by his ex, Jed notices Nell through the window and decides to approach her, convincing her to come to his room. Gradually, Nell’s mental instability becomes apparent, leading to increasingly tense and unsettling situations that affect everyone around her.

The film is intriguing and quite original for its time. The performances are solid and believable, and the pacing keeps the story engaging without dragging on. For fans of psychological thrillers, it’s definitely worth watching. However, its limited budget shows, as most of the story takes place within the hotel—primarily in a single room—which can make the setting feel somewhat repetitive. As for Marilyn, she plays Nell in one of her first major roles, delivering a surprisingly strong performance. Still, since this Top 10 focuses on the films as a whole rather than solely on her acting, Don’t Bother to Knock takes the number 10 spot. It’s a modest but effective movie, well executed and full of tension, though the ones that follow on this list are certainly stronger overall.

9 The Seven Year Itch (1955)

Yes, The Seven Year Itch is one of Marilyn Monroe’s most famous films. The image of her white dress billowing over the subway grate is arguably the most iconic moment of her career—alongside Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend. However, despite its fame, I personally believe that Marilyn made far better movies. The Seven Year Itch is a comedy directed by Billy Wilder, with a screenplay by Wilder himself and George Axelrod, who also wrote the stage play on which it’s based. The film stars Tom Ewell and Marilyn Monroe. The story follows Richard Sherman, an office worker who stays behind in New York while his wife and son go on vacation. Soon, a beautiful, unnamed young woman moves into the building, sparking Richard’s fantasies and midlife desires brought on by the so-called “seven-year itch.”

As a comedy, the film works—it’s light, amusing, and has its funny moments. Wilder’s sense of marketing genius was undeniable; the subway grate scene was a brilliant idea that became one of the most recognizable images in cinematic history, helping the film achieve massive success. That said, there are some flaws. The movie feels very theatrical, since almost all of it takes place inside Richard’s apartment, with few characters and a somewhat uneven pacing that improves toward the end. Tom Ewell dominates most of the screen time, while Marilyn appears less than audiences would probably like. And although the subway grate scene is legendary, it’s actually more impressive in photos than in the film itself, where it’s a brief, rather minor moment.

As for Marilyn, while this list focuses on the films as a whole rather than her performances alone, it’s worth noting that this is one of the few times she truly played the classic “dumb blonde” stereotype. In reality, Marilyn was a highly intelligent woman, and most of her roles are far more nuanced than people think. But here, her character was deliberately written to be superficial and comedic—and she delivers exactly what the script requires. Overall, The Seven Year Itch is a good comedy and an enjoyable film, but despite its iconic status, I believe Marilyn made other, much better movies—even if they’re less famous. For that reason, it takes the number 9 spot.

8 The Prince and the Showgirl (1957)

The Prince and the Showgirl is a romantic comedy that achieved moderate success upon release, though it was considerably more popular in the United Kingdom. The film was partly produced by Marilyn Monroe herself through her own company, Marilyn Monroe Productions, and it remains the only film officially produced under that banner. Laurence Olivier directed and also starred in the film alongside Marilyn, while the screenplay was written by Terence Rattigan, who also wrote the stage play on which it is based. Set in 1911, the story follows Prince Regent Charles of Carpathia—a fictional Eastern European country—who travels to London with his mother, the Dowager Queen, and his son to attend the coronation of King George V. While there, he visits a theatre and meets an American showgirl named Elsie Marina. Captivated by her charm, he invites her to the embassy, where Elsie’s warmth and spontaneity gradually melt the prince’s cold and formal demeanor. However, political tensions back in Carpathia complicate matters: his son is plotting a democratic revolution. Elsie, who deeply believes in democracy (much like Marilyn herself), ends up influencing the prince’s worldview.

As a comedy, the film works beautifully—light, witty, and genuinely funny, largely thanks to Marilyn, who is excellent in her comedic role. In my opinion, The Prince and the Showgirl could have been a much less remarkable film, but Marilyn’s performance makes it shine. This movie captures her at her purest essence, and the script allows her to display both charm and intelligence. Outside of her performance, however, the film offers somewhat less: it’s a bit theatrical at times, though less so than The Seven Year Itch, and features better-designed settings. The pacing can occasionally feel slow, but it never becomes dull.

 Without going too deeply into her performance, it’s enough to say that Marilyn, as Elsie Marina, is simply outstanding—she is the soul of the entire film. In short, The Prince and the Showgirl is a very good, elegant, and charming comedy. Personally, it was one of the films that most pleasantly surprised me from Marilyn’s filmography, though the ones that follow in this ranking are, in my view, even better. Therefore, it takes the number 8 spot.

7 River of No Return (1954)

River of No Return is a dramatic adventure western directed by Otto Preminger, with a screenplay by Frank Fenton, and starring Robert Mitchum, Marilyn Monroe, and Tommy Rettig. The story follows Matt, a man who reunites with his young son, Mark, who has been cared for by a saloon singer named Kay. Kay’s boyfriend, Harry, convinces her to leave for a nearby town after winning the deed to a gold mine in a bet. However, after a series of unexpected events (no spoilers here), Matt, Kay, and Mark embark on a dangerous journey downriver toward the city, facing attacks from Native Americans, hunger, cold, enemies, and the perilous river itself.

The film is very good. It’s not one of Marilyn’s most famous works, but for me it was a very pleasant surprise—though I admit I enjoy adventure films. It’s not a typical western; it’s more of a dramatic adventure set in the rural American frontier (though it was actually filmed in Canada) during the late 19th century. The story is solid, the performances are strong, and the serious tone makes it engaging without ever becoming heavy. Visually, it’s the most beautiful film Marilyn ever made—the landscapes are stunning. There’s a fair amount of action, but not overdone, and the film also features some of Marilyn’s best songs, especially One Silver Dollar, which is incredible, along with River of No Return and Down in the Meadow. As for criticisms, it could have been slightly longer, with more characters, a stronger plot twist, and a better-developed antagonist. 

Regarding Marilyn, she has a leading role as Kay and delivers an excellent performance, even if it’s not one of her most frequently mentioned.Overall, River of No Return is a very good film. It may seem simpler than others, but it’s extremely well-executed and acted. I think it’s the most underrated movie of Marilyn’s career and deserves much more recognition—even from viewers who aren’t fond of adventure films. It definitely deserves a place in any Marilyn top 10. Highly recommended, especially for fans of adventure movies, though there are still a few of her films that surpass it.

6 Niagara (1953)

Niagara is a color thriller directed by Henry Hathaway, starring Jean Peters, Joseph Cotten, Marilyn Monroe, and Max Showalter. The story follows two couples: the Loomises, George and Rose, and the Cutlers, Polly and Ray. The toxic relationship between George and Rose drives the plot, while the Cutlers, especially Polly, become involved in the unfolding events.

The film is very entertaining and never feels slow. The performances are strong, the tension is constant, and the dramatic twists are well executed. Hathaway’s style is artistically impressive, color plays a central role and is used masterfully, and the setting is stunning. The ending, the first time I watched it, seemed mediocre, but upon a second viewing, I found it more satisfying. As a critique, without giving away spoilers, I’d say Rose’s character could have had a bit more weight or screen time. Also, although the ending worked better for me on a second viewing, I still think it could have been stronger; perhaps the film could have been slightly longer, but overall it works well.

Regarding Marilyn, she has a leading role as Rose, which is excellent, and by far the most compelling character in the film. In summary, Niagara is highly recommended and artistically impressive, with strong performances and consistent tension. Still, there are other Marilyn films I consider superior, which is why I place it at number 6.

5 How to Marry a Millonaire (1953)

How to Marry a Millionaire is a comedy directed by Jean Negulesco, with a screenplay by Nunnally Johnson, starring Lauren Bacall, Betty Grable, and Marilyn Monroe. The story follows three women, Schatze, Pola, and Loco, who rent a luxurious apartment in New York with the goal of attracting wealthy men and marrying them. However, complications and absurd situations arise that disrupt their plans.

The film is very entertaining, works perfectly as a comedy, has a good pace, and never feels heavy. The performances are solid, and in terms of costumes and set design, it is one of Marilyn Monroe’s best films. As a critique, Pola often appears with Schatze, but her romantic storylines are less developed compared to her co-stars. There’s a moment mentioned at the end of the film that is never shown, which could have been fun to see. Pola is the funniest of the three; she doesn’t have less screen time, but her romantic arcs are less emphasized.

Regarding Marilyn, she has a leading role as Pola and is absolutely charming. While she gives stronger performances in other films, in my opinion she is the funniest of the three leads. Overall, How to Marry a Millionaire is an excellent comedy and possibly one of the best of the 1950s. Highly recommended for fans of the genre, though it doesn’t reach the level of some of the other films in the top 10.

4 Bus Stop (1956)

Bus Stop is a comedy-drama directed by Joshua Logan, written by George Axelrod, and starring Don Murray, Marilyn Monroe, and Arthur O’Connell. The story follows Bo, a young cowboy traveling by bus with his friend Virgil from Montana to Phoenix to compete in a rodeo. Virgil tells him it’s time to find a woman, and in a Phoenix nightclub Bo falls in love with Cherie, a small-town singer who dreams of becoming a Hollywood star. However, Bo is rough and naive when it comes to love, and the clash between their personalities drives the plot.

At first glance, Bus Stop might seem like a simple movie, but it’s actually much deeper than it looks. What stands out the most are the performances, which are excellent — especially considering that most of the cast, apart from Marilyn, were newcomers or relatively unknown at the time. Despite that, they all deliver remarkable work. The film perfectly balances comedy and drama: the comedic moments work well, while the dramatic ones are even stronger. This well-crafted mix makes the film engaging, emotional, and surprisingly moving without ever feeling slow. It’s also worth noting that the movie is based on a stage play, and director Joshua Logan came from the theater world. Yet he does a great job of making the story cinematic rather than theatrical. There are also a few genuinely touching and heartwarming scenes that add depth to the story. As for minor criticisms, the plot still retains a certain simplicity — though less than it seems — and it could have been slightly longer. There’s a moment that’s mentioned but never shown, which could have added an interesting touch (no spoilers).

Regarding Marilyn, she has a leading role as Cherie and gives a truly spectacular performance. Her work was widely praised by critics at the time, even if it didn’t receive as many awards as it deserved. In short, Bus Stop is a great film — deceptively simple, deeply emotional, and filled with outstanding performances beyond just Marilyn’s. On sites like IMDb or FilmAffinity, it doesn’t have a particularly high rating, and I honestly don’t understand why. Many Marilyn fans rank it among her very best films, and I fully agree. However, there are still two films that surpass it in my opinion, so Bus Stop takes the number 4 spot.

3 The Misfits (1961)

The Misfits was the last film completed by Marilyn Monroe and also by Clark Gable. It is an intense drama directed by John Huston, with a screenplay by Arthur Miller, starring Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, Montgomery Clift, and Eli Wallach. The story follows Roslyn, a recently divorced woman and animal lover, who meets a group of cowboys: Gay, Guido, and Perce. Feeling disheartened, she decides to join them and live a rural life. As she becomes friends with them, particularly Gay, her outlook on life improves significantly, but conflicts arise related to how the cowboys treat the animals.

As a drama, the film works very well. Although no major tragedy occurs, Miller and Huston manage to create an intense sense of emptiness and sadness. This is mainly due to the outstanding performances, which are excellent. The film is not unbearably heavy; it is watchable and engaging. Some critiques could be that the dialogue is the main focus, which is typical for dramas, and that the film is in black and white; while this suits the dramatic tone, it might have been better in color. Additionally, the Nevada desert setting could have been showcased with more spectacular landscapes.

Without going too deeply into Marilyn’s performance, it’s worth noting that she has a leading role as Roslyn and that it may be one of the greatest performances in cinema history. The film is worth watching for her performance alone, but her co-stars also deliver remarkable work. Overall, The Misfits is an intense and very interesting film, emotionally compelling. For drama enthusiasts, it is a must-watch. Personally, since I am not a huge fan of this genre, I place it at number 3.

2 Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is a musical comedy directed by Howard Hawks, written by Charles Lederer, and starring Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell. The story follows Lorelei Lee and Dorothy Shaw, two best friends from Little Rock who couldn’t be more different —Lorelei is obsessed with wealth, jewelry, and above all, diamonds, while Dorothy is more interested in love and having fun. Despite their differences, their bond is strong, almost sister-like. Both are successful singers who embark on a cruise to Paris, but Lorelei’s fiancé’s father hires a private detective to spy on her, doubting her intentions. However, the detective also finds himself entangled in romantic confusion. What follows, both aboard the ship and later in Paris, is a series of extravagant and hilarious situations that make this film one of the most iconic comedies ever made.

As a comedy, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is flawless. It’s hilarious, fast-paced, and never dull for a second. The performances may not be deeply emotional, but they’re perfect for the film’s comedic tone. The movie is packed with unforgettable moments, especially the legendary Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend sequence —one of the most iconic scenes in cinema history and a defining moment in Marilyn Monroe’s career. Although it’s technically a musical, it doesn’t feel like a typical one. There are songs, yes, but not too many —so even viewers who don’t usually enjoy musicals can easily appreciate it. The songs themselves are excellent, arguably the best in Marilyn’s career, particularly Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend, which I consider her finest musical performance, though When Love Goes Wrong (Nothing Goes Right) comes very close. The sets and costumes are top-notch, among the best in any of her films. The duo of Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell is probably one of the best female pairings in film history —their chemistry, humor, and energy are unmatched. If I had to mention a flaw, it’s that the film could have been slightly longer, though it’s perfectly paced as it is. It’s also a pity there was never a sequel, since it would have been amazing, but sequels weren’t as common in the 1950s.

As for Marilyn, she has a leading role as Lorelei Lee, and while it’s not one of her most emotionally complex performances, it’s outstanding in terms of comedic timing and charm. In summary, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is one of the greatest comedies ever made —funny, clever, and visually stunning. There’s absolutely no reason not to watch it. Only one Marilyn film manages to surpass it.

1 Some Like It Hot (1959)

Some Like It Hot is a comedy directed by Billy Wilder, written by Wilder himself along with I.A.L. Diamond, and starring Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon, and Marilyn Monroe. The plot follows two musicians and best friends, Joe and Jerry, who witness a mafia crime in Chicago and must flee for their lives. To hide, they disguise themselves as women and join an all-female band, taking on the names Josephine and Daphne. On their train trip to Miami, they meet the group —and especially its charming singer, Sugar Kane, who’s sweet, kind, and unlucky in love, particularly with saxophone players. Both men fall for her, leading to a hilarious chain of misunderstandings, disguises, and romantic chaos, all while the mafia remains on their trail.

There’s really no doubt: Some Like It Hot is simply perfect —arguably the greatest comedy ever made. This isn’t just my opinion; it’s a widely shared sentiment among critics and audiences alike. From start to finish, it’s a masterclass in comedic writing. The script is razor-sharp, original, and endlessly funny, packed with clever dialogue and iconic scenes, including what many consider the best ending in film history. The performances are outstanding. Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon deliver some of the best comedic acting ever seen, and Marilyn Monroe shines brilliantly. Even though it’s a comedy, Marilyn gives her character, Sugar Kane, an unexpected emotional depth —combining humor, vulnerability, and warmth in a way that makes her unforgettable. The pacing is perfect, the tone is balanced, and every scene feels essential. The movie also features a few great songs performed by Marilyn —especially I Wanna Be Loved By You— although musically, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes might still take the crown. But this film doesn’t need anything more: it’s flawless as it is. If I had to point out small flaws, they would be minor —the fact that it’s in black and white (though it actually suits the film perfectly and was chosen for technical reasons related to makeup), and the absence of a sequel. Sequels weren’t common in the 1950s, but one can only imagine how delightful a continuation would have been.

As for Marilyn, she plays a leading role as Sugar Kane, and her performance is fantastic. It proves that a truly great performance doesn’t have to come from drama —comedy can reach just as high. In short, Some Like It Hot is the perfect comedy —Marilyn Monroe’s best film and one of the finest movies ever made. It’s timeless, endlessly rewatchable, and pure joy from start to finish.

Conclusion

This has been my top 10 list of films starring Marilyn Monroe. Once again, this is purely my personal and subjective opinion —everyone has their own tastes and preferences when it comes to movies. There are three Marilyn-led films that didn’t make it into the list, but they’re still worth watching and appreciating. I hope this ranking has been enjoyable, and that if you haven’t seen some of these movies yet, it inspires you to do so. Marilyn Monroe was far more than just a pop culture icon —she was a genuinely talented actress, capable of shining brilliantly in both comedy and drama. Her filmography, though not extensive, remains full of cinematic gems that deserve to be revisited and celebrated.