The Third Man

Main Plot

"The Third Man," directed by Carol Reed, is a classic film noir set in post-World War II Vienna, a city divided among the Allies and rife with intrigue and corruption. The story follows Holly Martins, an American writer who arrives in Vienna at the invitation of his old friend Harry Lime. Upon his arrival, Martins learns that Lime has recently died in a mysterious accident. Driven by doubts about the circumstances of Lime's death, Martins embarks on a quest to uncover the truth. As Martins delves deeper, he navigates a complex web of deception and encounters various enigmatic characters, including Lime's grieving lover and a British police officer. The city's atmospheric ruins and shadowy alleyways mirror the moral ambiguities Martins faces. His investigation leads to startling revelations about Lime's life and activities, challenging Martins' loyalty and ethics. The film is renowned for its atmospheric cinematography, iconic zither score by Anton Karas, and a climactic chase through Vienna's sewers. "The Third Man" is a gripping tale of friendship, betrayal, and the harsh realities of postwar disillusionment.

Characters

• Orson Welles plays Harry Lime, a charismatic but elusive racketeer whose supposed death and secretive activities drive the central mystery in postwar Vienna.
• Joseph Cotten plays Holly Martins, an American writer who investigates the mysterious death of his friend in post-war Vienna, uncovering disturbing truths.
• Alida Valli plays Anna Schmidt, a Czechoslovak actress and Harry Lime's lover, entangled in a mystery involving his death and criminal activities in post-war Vienna.

Ending Explained

In the concluding sequence of "The Third Man," directed by Carol Reed, Holly Martins, an American writer, attends the funeral of his friend Harry Lime, whom he had previously discovered to be alive and involved in a penicillin racket in post-war Vienna. After uncovering the truth about Lime's criminal activities, which have resulted in the deaths and suffering of many, including children, Martins agrees to help the police capture him. In a dramatic chase through the sewers of Vienna, Lime is ultimately shot by Martins after being cornered. The film ends with Lime's second funeral, after which Martins waits at the side of the road for Anna Schmidt, Lime's former lover, who is devastated by his betrayal and death. As she approaches, Martins lights a cigarette and watches her walk towards him. In a poignant and telling moment, Anna walks past Martins without acknowledging him, continuing down the road alone. This final scene underscores the emotional distance between them and highlights the consequences of Lime's actions and Martins' decision to bring him to justice, leaving their relationships irreparably damaged.