Film Noir Baby

Executive Suite is a drama, made in 1954, which basically tells the story of the political maneuverings in a furniture company after the head honcho dies unexpectedly.  You'd think it would be boring, but thanks to a compelling, multi-faceted script, you find yourself getting more deeply involved in the outcome with every scene. William Holden stands out in a marvelous cast as the man least likely to become the new boss, but he's the one most invested in keeping the company's integrity and showing its workers the compassion they deserve. Barbara Stanwyck plays a small but unforgettable part as the mistress of the dead man.  It comes across as pure soap opera at times, but I like the interaction between the couples like Holden and June Allyson, and Paul Douglas and Shelley Winters. Fredric March is exceptional as a sweating, conniving executive who tries to worm his way into the top job. Louis Calhern is particularly sleazy in this film. I love the actress, Luc...