The Arrangement

The Arrangement, released in 1969, is a compelling drama based on the best-selling novel written by director Elia Kazan. The film features a robust cast, with Hollywood icons such as Kirk Douglas, Faye Dunaway, and Deborah Kerr leading the charge with their charismatic performances.

It delves deep into the life of Eddie Anderson (Kirk Douglas), an affluent, successful advertising executive living a seemingly perfect life in suburbia with his dutiful wife Florence (Deborah Kerr). Despite his ideal surroundings, Eddie struggles with an existential crisis; beneath the veneer of the American Dream, he grapples with an inner turmoil that threatens to capsize his life. Plagued by a sense of unfulfillment and ennui, he finds himself on a verge of both a mental and emotional breakdown.

In his quest for happiness and meaning, Eddie gets drawn into an extramarital affair with Gwen (Faye Dunaway), a sharp, assertive woman who ignites his lost passion. The affair introduces another layer of complication to the protagonist's already turbulent life, escalating further as the film progresses. The affair pulls him into a whirlwind of emotions, further intensifying his internal conflict.

The Arrangement carries symbolic references of late 60s America, painting the picture of an era defined by consumerism, cultural revolution, and changing societal norms. These themes, coupled with Elia Kazan’s delicate direction, reflect in the protagonist's profound struggle with his self-identity, success, materialism, and marital fidelity.

Kirk Douglas shines as Eddie, offering a deeply evocative portrayal of a man slowly losing his grip on reality as he wrestles with his conflicting desires. He flawlessly embodies a man hollowed out by material success, yearning for a deeper connection with life.

Faye Dunaway, as Gwen, mesmerizes with her fiery allure and sharp intellect, embodying every man’s forbidden fantasy, while Deborah Kerr, as Florence, gracefully illustrates a woman’s pain, love, and forgiveness. Each actor brings their own unique depiction to the story, contributing to an intricate exploration of human sentiments.

Director Elia Kazan, known for his ability to bring out the best in his actors, steps up to the mantle in The Arrangement as well. He intricately weaves a complex narrative, striking a delicate balance between life’s beauty and its inherent chaos. The screenplay, also penned by Kazan, is reflective, intense, and doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker sides of life — even when it lives in the shadow of supposed success.

The film's cinematography further contributes to the underlying philosophical tones and the protagonist's existential crisis. The Arrangement uses visuals to great effect, meaningfully amplifying the mood and conveying the intensity of emotions that weigh upon the characters.

However, the Arrangement is not a clear-cut morality tale. It fiercely challenges societal conventions, encouraging spectators to question the universal pursuit of success as it moves along its intense narrative. Moreover, it invites its audience to ponder the often problematic interplay between personal desires and social expectations. From its iconic opening scene to its appropriately ambiguous ending, the film allows room for personal interpretation—echoing the complexities of real-life.

Kazan's The Arrangement is unconventional in its genre, refusing to abide by the typical Hollywood fare of 'happily ever after'. This distinct approach towards storytelling makes it a film that resonates well with audiences who appreciate intricate character studies and nuanced performances.

Above all, it is a film that demands reflection, a film that dares to look directly into the recesses of the human condition, prompting viewers to examine their own understanding of personal fulfillment, success, relationships, and the impact of societal norms upon these dynamics.

In conclusion, The Arrangement from 1969 delivers a raw, emotional punch, fueled by standout performances from Kirk Douglas, Faye Dunaway, and Deborah Kerr. It is a thought-provoking cinematic journey through the mind of a man lost in his own life—a man consumed by incongruity between his personal desires and the world's expectations. Prepare for an engaging exploration of the self under Elia Kazan's insightful direction.