In a story about ambition and betrayal, 'Staples' finds the protagonist transitioning from a respected plant operator in Ohio to taking up an executive role at the prestigious Ramsey & Co., located in the heart of New York City. Striking up a close friendship with Briggs, a seasoned vice president within the company, Staples unwittingly becomes embroiled in a power struggle orchestrated by Walter Ramsey, who has recently inherited the CEO title. Instead of directly confronting the loyal Briggs and initiating his removal, Ramsey strategically embarks on a calculated path of humiliation and sabotage to gradually strip away Briggs' position at the company, ultimately seeking to replace him with Staples. This intricate corporate drama unfolds with themes of loyalty, manipulation, and the ruthlessness lurking beneath the surface in the corporate world.
What Makes "Patterns" Stand Out:
- The film's claustrophobic setting within the corporate environment creates an intense atmosphere that draws viewers into the web of deception and ambition.
- The cast delivers compelling performances, particularly Richard Conte as Walter Ramsey and Everett Sloane as Briggs, both of whom skillfully portray the complexities of power dynamics in a business setting.
- The script, adapted from a teleplay by Rod Serling, is noted for its taut dialogue and insightful commentary on corporate politics.
Fun Facts:
- The movie's title, 'Patterns', is derived from the intricate corporate patterns and power struggles portrayed in the film.
- This was one of the first American films to be filmed entirely on location within a single business building - in this case, the prestigious McGraw-Hill Building in New York City.
- The lead actor, Edward Murphy, earned critical acclaim for his performance as Fred Staples, and this role marked a turning point in his career.
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