The Third Man
Synopsis
An out of work pulp fiction novelist, Holly Martins, arrives in a post war Vienna divided into sectors by the victorious allies, and where a shortage of supplies has led to a flourishing black market. He arrives at the invitation of an ex-school friend, Harry Lime, who has offered him a job, only to discover that Lime has recently died in a peculiar traffic accident. From talking to Lime's friends and associates Martins soon notices that some of the stories are inconsistent, and determines to discover what really happened to Harry Lime.
Critical Acclaim
Upon its release in 1949, The Third Man was met with widespread critical acclaim, celebrated for its intriguing narrative and atmospheric portrayal of post-war Vienna. Directed by Carol Reed and written by Graham Greene, the film was lauded for its compelling storytelling and innovative cinematography by Robert Krasker. Critics of the time praised the film's ability to blend elements of suspense, mystery, and noir, creating an enthralling cinematic experience that resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Bosley Crowther of The New York Times called the film "a brilliant melodrama" and highlighted its "fascinating and disturbing" depiction of Vienna. In a review for The Observer, critic C.A. Lejeune wrote that the film "completely grips the imagination." Modern critics continue to regard The Third Man as a masterpiece, with a 99% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Roger Ebert referred to it as "one of the all-time best thrillers," praising its use of light and shadow and Orson Welles' iconic performance as Harry Lime.
The Third Man has left a lasting impact on the film industry, influencing generations of filmmakers with its distinctive visual style and narrative depth. It won the Grand Prix at the 1949 Cannes Film Festival and the BAFTA for Best British Film. The film's haunting zither score by Anton Karas and the unforgettable "cuckoo clock" speech delivered by Welles have become cultural touchstones. Continuously ranked among the greatest films of all time by the British Film Institute and others, The Third Man endures as a seminal work in the film noir genre.
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