Review of The Third Man (1949) by Tim S — 27 Jan 2009
Being a bit of an Orson Welles enthusiast, I'm rightfully shamed to say that prior to tonight, I hadn't seen The Third Man. I dreaded that it wouldn't live up to its classic reputation and groundbreaking status.
My fears were more than grounded. Orson steals the show of course, but the cast is very well-rounded and everyone gives terrific performances. Alida Valli is just gorgeous and haunting while Joseph Cotten gives it his all.
This is one of the most beautiful black and white films I've ever had the pleasure to see. I still can't believe it was shot in 1949. All of the slant angles, the smoke, the lighting, the atmosphere and just the pure beauty, light and dark, are still striking.
The film's look is in no way dated by modern standards of filmmaking. The story itself is sort of a Hitchcockian detective story, akin to films like Hitchcock's own Rear Window, and later police dramas like L.
A. Confidential. It flows nicely and is extremely well-written and paced. I didn't lose interest once during the entire film. The score is both beautiful and unsettling. Mostly the same theme played throughout but to great effect.
Carol Reed achieved a masterpiece with this film, and it's as fresh and interesting today, even more so than in 1949. A film truly ahead of its time, it is not to be missed.
This review of The Third Man (1949) was written by Tim S on 27 Jan 2009.
The Third Man has generally received very positive reviews.
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