Torment (1950 British film)

Torment, also known as The Interrupted Journey in the United States, is a 1950 British psychological drama film directed by John Guillermin and starring Dermot Walsh, John Bailey, and Lois Maxwell.

The film centers around Alan Penton (Dermot Walsh), a married man struggling with writer's block and a stifling relationship with his wife, Janet (Lois Maxwell). He plans to leave her for his mistress, Vicki (Gwen Gilling). However, on the night he intends to leave, Janet dies suddenly, seemingly from a heart attack. Overwhelmed with guilt and suspicion, Alan fears he may have unconsciously caused her death or even worse, that he somehow murdered her in his sleep.

The film explores themes of guilt, repression, and the psychological impact of marital strife. It delves into Alan's deteriorating mental state as he becomes increasingly convinced of his own culpability, despite the lack of concrete evidence against him. Detective Inspector Fenton (John Bailey) investigates the death, and Alan's paranoia amplifies under the pressure of the inquiry.

Torment is noted for its suspenseful atmosphere and exploration of the dark undercurrents within seemingly ordinary lives. Its relatively low budget and B-movie status haven't prevented it from garnering some attention as a minor example of British film noir, showcasing domestic tensions and repressed desires.