“The Third Man” is a classic noir film set in post-World War II Vienna. It was directed by Carol Reed and released in 1949. The story revolves around Holly Martins (played by Joseph Cotten), an American novelist who arrives in Vienna to meet his old friend Harry Lime (played by Orson Welles), only to discover that Lime has died in a mysterious accident.
As Martins investigates the circumstances surrounding Lime’s death, he becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue, deceit, and corruption. He uncovers unsettling truths about Lime’s involvement in a black market operation selling diluted penicillin, a scheme that led to the deaths of innocent people. With the help of Major Calloway (played by Trevor Howard), a British military police officer, Martins delves deeper into the city’s dark underbelly.
Throughout the investigation, the enigmatic and charismatic Harry Lime emerges from the shadows, revealing himself to be alive and manipulating events from behind the scenes. Lime’s reappearance forces Martins to confront the moral ambiguity of friendship and realize that his old friend is far from the person he once knew.
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of a divided and war-torn Vienna, the film is renowned for its striking cinematography, atmospheric setting, and memorable zither score by Anton Karas. “The Third Man” is a gripping tale of moral ambiguity, betrayal, and the shadows lurking within the city and the human soul. Its iconic performances, especially Orson Welles’ captivating portrayal of the enigmatic Harry Lime, continue to captivate audiences and critics, cementing its status as a classic in cinema history.
The Other Cinema 