Patterns

Patterns is a gripping drama from 1956 that explores the cutthroat and often underhanded tactics present in big business and corporation politics. Directed by Fielder Cook, Patterns stands today as an under-appreciated, contemplative classic that explores the morality and forthcoming of corporate America at its peak. It features standout performances by seasoned actors including Van Heflin, Everett Sloane, and Ed Begley, who bring their characters and the film's message to life in memorable and striking ways.

The story follows Fred Staples (Van Heflin), an accomplished engineer from the Midwest who is excited about his recent recruitment by a large corporation based in New York City. Encouraged by the flattering attention awarded to him by the determined and assertive company president, Walter Ramsey (Everett Sloane), Staples anticipates a fruitful future with the company. However, he soon becomes steeped in the harsh reality of corporate life and the ruthless power struggles at its core.

As Staples progressively learns, Ramsey's ruthlessness is not limited to the firm's competitors. Staples realizes that he was hired as a replacement for the aging Vice President, Bill Briggs (Ed Begley), who is slowly being edged out. Briggs, the moral backbone of the company, is a kind, hardworking man who has dedicated 30 long years to the corporation. He resists the cold and heartless business practices that Ramsey promotes, striving instead for a more compassionate approach.

Staples, torn between aligning himself with the powerful Ramsey and standing up for the outmatched Briggs, faces the challenging decision that will shape his future in the corporation. His endeavors are complicated by the fact that Staples has come to admire and respect Briggs, who reflects the values closest to his heart.

Patterns synchronizes with a beautifully intricate screenplay by Rod Serling, later lauded for his work on "The Twilight Zone", and is enriched by superb, authentic performances from Van Heflin and Ed Begley. Heflin embodies the ambitious yet morally conflicted Staples convincingly, whilst Begley skillfully plays the tragically undermined Briggs with a depth and sensitivity that resonates deeply.

Everett Sloane as the harsh and calculating Walter Ramsey delivers a chilling portrayal of the relentless, win-at-all-costs mentality that is often associated with excessive power and ambition. In his role, he delivers a precise, penetrating performance that leaves audiences both repelled and fascinated by his character’s brilliance and ruthlessness.

Given that the film was released during an era where the corporatization of America was hitting its stride, Patterns provides viewers with an insightful, albeit bleak, commentary on the ethics, culture, and politics of American big business. The film brilliantly juxtaposes the struggle between individuals' ethical and moral standards against the pressing demands of maintaining success and climbing the corporate ladder.

Patterns also addresses the cost of progress, not just in terms of industry, but also in relation to individuals and their humanity. Through the prism of Staples and Briggs, the film poses a conundrum of allegiance to one's humanity versus the allure of dominance, power, and prosperity.

The production values of Patterns also contribute to its impact. Aside from its solid cast, the film boasts impressive black-and-white cinematography, atmospheric lighting, and artful framing that serve to enhance the dramatic intensity of the plot. The cinematography is sober and controlled, befitting the nature of the story, and the direction by Fielder Cook is measured and crisp, letting the script and the performances shine.

On the whole, Patterns is not just a movie but an exploration of corporate ethics and the choices that individuals must make when caught between personal values and professional ambition. Despite being more than six decades old, the film's themes, struggles and questions it poses remain as relevant today as they were back in the 1950s.

Further underpinned by an engaging script, compelling characters, and strong performances, Patterns remains an important classic that offers an unflinching look at the psyche of corporate America. The film presents its audience with a captivating tale of business, ethics, and individual struggle that is just as applicable to viewers today as it was when it first premiered in 1956.