Critical
The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "Repetitive and violent – at least two thirds of this film are taken up with fights and attempted rape – Floods of Fear is a blood-and-guts melodrama on the starkest and toughest lines. Characters are drawn with bold, uncompromising strokes and none of the actors is required to give more than a sketch of a performance. Audiences who can become involved in the story may find it exciting; for those who are not prepared to believe in the reality of what is happening it may carry less conviction." [8]
Variety called the film: "one of Britain's most determined Attempts to woo the U.S. market. Not only does it have Howard Keel as its male star, but the meller is unabashedly set in the U.S. The film has a novel setting, but an old idea, and corny dialog doesn't help the characters to develop overmuch. However, there is some sound acting and the production quality is tops. It adds up to reasonable entertainment, but it is one of those annoying pix that should – and could – have been much better. It is questionable whether its marquee value is sufficiently strong to lure Yank patrons". [9]
Filmink called it "extremely well done technically, and quite a good little thriller from Charles Crichton, it's just... what's the point? Why make a film set in America about Americans where your imported American star is someone known for musical comedies rather than action (Howard Keel)? This was not a mistake that other British studios made – like, say, Warwick Pictures who routinely imported American stars, but ones who specialised in action (eg Alan Ladd, Victor Mature) and usually gave their stories a specifically British slant. Rank was not good enough to tackle Hollywood head on." [10]
TV Guide wrote, "Heywood is a joy to watch as she stands up to the impending aquatic doom." [11]
The Radio Times wrote, "well performed by an able cast Dallas star Howard Keel, Steptoe and Son's Harry H Corbett, Cyril Cusack and, in particular, damsel in distress Anne Heywood this is typical, and unremarkable, British 1950s B-movie fare." [12]
