Patterns

Patterns is a 1956 American psychological drama film directed by Frédéric Kotzky and produced by Stanley Kramer. The screenplay, written by Rod Serling, revolves around the themes of office politics, power struggles, loyalty, and the effects of unbridled ambition on human relationships. The story takes place at the fictional Ramsey & Co., a successful paper company in New York. Arthur Briggs (played by Everett Sloane), a vice president of the company, is nearing the end of his career. His position as the heir apparent to the company's top spot is all but guaranteed. However, the sudden inheritance of the presidency by Walter Ramsey's son, Walter E. Ramsey (played by Ed Begley), throws the entire dynamic of the company's inner workings out of balance. As a result of the sudden transition, Briggs's potential successor is brought in from out of town - Jack Staples (played by George C. Scott). Originally a plant operator from Ohio, Staples's meteoric rise to the executive ranks has been swift and successful, leading to his appointment as executive vice president at Ramsey & Co. His charm, charisma, and strong work ethic make him an appealing choice as Briggs's potential replacement. Despite his friendly demeanor and desire to fit in, Staples's presence creates an awkward situation for Briggs. Staples quickly becomes a protege of the new CEO, Walter E., and is groomed for greater things at the company. It becomes apparent that Walt Ramsey is deliberately attempting to undermine Briggs's authority and push him out of the company, all without directly firing him. The conflict escalates as Ramsey resorts to increasingly underhanded tactics to sabotage Briggs. He assigns Staples to take over various responsibilities traditionally belonging to Briggs, gradually eroding his influence within the company. Meanwhile, Staples finds himself torn between his personal loyalty to Briggs and the temptation of his newfound status within the company. As Briggs struggles to maintain his position and dignity, the pressure mounted and his relationships with Staples and the other employees become increasingly strained. Meanwhile, the story also delves into the back story of Briggs and his complicated relationship with the Ramsey family. Briggs had been a long-serving executive within the company, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. He had been promised that he would be the eventual successor to the company's top spot, but the sudden change in leadership puts him in a precarious position. Throughout the film, the character of Briggs comes under greater scrutiny. His stubborn refusal to accept the situation and adapt to the changing landscape is portrayed as a form of inflexibility. On the other hand, Ramsey's ruthless determination to assert his dominance is portrayed as a corrupt and cynical approach to business. The film culminates in a climactic confrontation between Briggs and the new CEO, where he must decide whether to stay and fight for his position or to leave with dignity intact. Ultimately, Briggs is faced with the realization that the game has changed and he can no longer play by the old rules. The movie Patterns is often cited as an early example of the psychological thriller genre. The tension builds slowly throughout the narrative, as Ramseys's Machiavellian tactics gradually chip away at Briggs's self-respect and morale. As the power struggle reaches its boiling point, Briggs is forced to confront the harsh realities of corporate politics.