Cast:
Joseph CottenHolly Martins
Alida ValliAnna Schmidt
Trevor HowardMajor Calloway
Orson WellesHarry Lime
Paul HörbigerKarl the Porter
Ernst Deutsch'Baron' Kurtz
Director:
Carol Reed
The Third Man (1949): Spoiler-Free Review
The Third Man is Carol Reed’s 1949 film noir set in postwar Vienna. It is famous for its zither music, its tilted camera angles and one unforgettable reveal.
The Premise
Writer Holly Martins (Joseph Cotten) arrives in Vienna to meet his old friend Harry Lime. He learns that Harry has died in an accident. Holly doubts the story and starts to ask questions. The more he learns, the less it adds up.
Why It Works
- Graham Greene wrote the screenplay, and the dialogue is sharp.
- Anton Karas’s zither score gives the film a unique sound.
- Robert Krasker won the Oscar for Best Black-and-White Cinematography.
- The bombed-out Vienna locations give the film a gritty, real look.
At a Glance
- Director: Carol Reed
- Cast: Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, Orson Welles, Trevor Howard
- Writer: Graham Greene
- Music: Anton Karas
Verdict
A classic thriller that is sharp and surprising today. Watch it without spoilers.
- Who should watch: Fans of classic film noir.
- Spoilers: none. We never reveal the twist in this review.
Frequently Asked Questions About:
"The Third Man"
Who wrote The Third Man?
Graham Greene wrote the screenplay.
Did The Third Man win an Oscar?
Yes. Robert Krasker won Best Black-and-White Cinematography.
Why is the camera tilted in The Third Man?
Reed used slanted angles to create unease.
Last updated: November, 2026
– Film details and cast information checked.
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