John Berry directs Tension, which Allen Rivkin adapted from a story by John D. Klorer. The film features Richard Baseheart, Audrey Totter, Cyd Charisse, Barry Sullivan, Lloyd Gough and William Conrad, with music composed by Andre Previn and cinematography by Harry Stradling. This is a brisk, tightly constructed noir thriller that presents Baseheart as the manager of a drugstore and husband to the unpleasant Totter. When she’s murdered while planning to get rid of her boyfriend, Baseheart finds himself under suspicion. To clear his name and discover who really did it, he creates an assumed identity, attempting to solve the puzzle before detectives Sullivan and Conrad can pin everything on him. Totter embodies the familiar archetype of a dangerous woman as Tension reflects the post-war era’s desire for advancement away from widespread disappointment. Baseheart portrays a naive man hoping for a simple life with his alluring wife, but those dreams are destroyed by her pursuit of luxury and a more dominant partner in Lloyd Gough. However, Baseheart isn't entirely foolish; he imagines himself capable of carrying out the perfect crime. His new identity—a superficial change involving contact lenses—leads him to Cyd Charisse. Rivkin’s script allows Totter to fully embrace her role as a cruel and manipulative woman, using her allure and sharp words against those around her. Claire Quimby is an example of the classic femme fatale, and Totter delivers a memorable performance. The supporting cast is equally strong, featuring stoic noir actors like Sullivan’s tough detective, Conrad’s menacing presence, Gough’s imposing figure, and Charisse's fragile beauty; it's a very well-assembled group. Berry’s straightforward direction, Stradling’s evocative photography, and Previn’s score all contribute to the film’s atmosphere. Certain aspects are silly, like the reference to Clark Kent, and figuring out who committed the crime isn’t difficult, but overall it's an enjoyable film. It earns a rating of 7/10.

Source on TMDB