Tension
Tension

Movie spotlight

Tension

1949
Movie
95 min
English

Warren Quimby manages a drugstore while trying to keep his volatile wife, Claire, happy. However, when Claire leaves him for a liquor store salesman, Warren can no longer bear it. He decides to assume a new identity in order to murder his wife's lover without leaving a trace. Along the way, his plans are complicated by an attractive neighbor, as well as a shocking discovery that opens up a new world of doubts and accusations.

Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Director: John BerryGenres: Film-Noir, Crime, Thriller

Plot Summary

In this noir thriller, a reformed criminal named John Brickman attempts to go straight, but his past catches up to him when his twin brother, Paul, a charming but ruthless gambler, arrives in town. Paul manipulates John into participating in a robbery, leading to a tangled web of deceit, betrayal, and violence as the brothers' lives spiral out of control.

Critical Reception

Tension is recognized as a solid, albeit somewhat unremarkable, entry in the film noir genre. While it boasts strong performances and a tense atmosphere, it is often overshadowed by more iconic films of the era. Critics at the time noted its competent direction and engaging plot, though some found its narrative predictable. Audiences generally appreciated its suspenseful elements.

What Reviewers Say

  • Presents a tense and atmospheric noir narrative.

  • Features strong performances, particularly from Richard Conte.

  • While well-crafted, it doesn't break new ground in the genre.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

The film was originally intended to star Robert Mitchum before Richard Conte was cast in the lead role.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

The Clark Kent Conundrum. Tension is directed by John Berry and adapted to screenplay by Allen Rivkin from a story by John D. Klorer. It stars Richard Baseheart, Audrey Totter, Cyd Charisse, Barry Sullivan, Lloyd Gough and William Conra...