The Third Man (1949) | Classics Authority

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The Third Man (1949)

“The Third Man” is a classic film noir directed by Carol Reed, released in 1949. The movie stars Joseph Cotten, Orson Welles, and Alida Valli, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. Set in post-war Vienna, the film follows the story of an American writer who arrives in the city to visit his old friend Harry Lime, only to discover that Lime has died under suspicious circumstances. As he delves deeper into the mystery, the writer finds himself drawn into a web of deception and intrigue.

Plot Summary

The film opens with Holly Martins (Joseph Cotten) arriving in Vienna to visit his friend Harry Lime, only to be told that Lime has died in a car accident. Martins is skeptical of the official story and begins to investigate further. He soon learns that Lime was involved in a black market racket selling adulterated penicillin, and that his death may not have been accidental after all.

Martins teams up with an eccentric British officer named Major Calloway (Trevor Howard) to uncover the truth about Lime’s death. Along the way, he meets Lime’s lover, Anna Schmidt (Alida Valli), and is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with the city’s criminal underworld.

As Martins delves deeper into the mystery, he discovers that Lime is not only alive, but that he orchestrated his own death in order to evade capture. Lime tries to convince Martins to join him in his criminal activities, but Martins ultimately decides to betray his friend and hand him over to the authorities.

Cinematography

“The Third Man” is renowned for its stunning cinematography, with striking black-and-white visuals that perfectly capture the dark and foreboding atmosphere of post-war Vienna. The film makes extensive use of Dutch angles, shadows, and low-key lighting to create a sense of tension and unease throughout.

One of the most famous scenes in the film is the chase through the sewers of Vienna, where Lime tries to escape from Martins and the police. The claustrophobic tunnels and eerie lighting heighten the suspense of the scene, culminating in a dramatic confrontation between the two men.

Performances

The performances in “The Third Man” are top-notch, with Joseph Cotten delivering a compelling portrayal of the naive and idealistic Holly Martins. Orson Welles is mesmerizing as the charismatic and enigmatic Harry Lime, bringing a sense of charm and menace to the character.

Alida Valli shines as Anna Schmidt, conveying a sense of vulnerability and strength in equal measure. Trevor Howard also delivers a memorable performance as the no-nonsense Major Calloway, providing a foil to Martins’ more romantic notions.

Themes

At its core, “The Third Man” explores themes of moral ambiguity, betrayal, and redemption. The film asks difficult questions about loyalty, friendship, and the price of doing the right thing. It forces its characters to confront their own flaws and weaknesses, and to make difficult choices that have far-reaching consequences.

The film’s setting in post-war Vienna serves as a powerful backdrop for these themes, highlighting the devastation and uncertainty of the aftermath of World War II. The city itself becomes a character in the film, its crumbling buildings and war-torn streets reflecting the moral decay and corruption at the heart of the story.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “The Third Man” is a masterful example of the film noir genre, combining dazzling visuals, memorable performances, and a gripping storyline to create a cinematic masterpiece. The film’s exploration of complex moral issues and its atmospheric depiction of post-war Vienna have earned it a well-deserved place in the pantheon of great films. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema or just looking for a compelling story, “The Third Man” is a must-see.