Review of The Third Man (1949) by Blake P — 17 Aug 2011

"The Third Man" is one of my favorite movies of all time! Holly Martins (Cotten), a traveling writer, goes to Vienna. He's planning to visit his friend Harry Lime (Welles) but learns that he died.

While trying to put the pieces together to Harry's mysterious death, he meets Anna, (Valli) Harrys lover. Together, they start to find out horrible things about Harry, until the shocking revelation about his true self.

Though this is always considered an Orson Welles movie, "The Third Man" actually is directed by Carol Reed (who obviously was influenced by Orson's style). Jospeh Cotten and Alida Valli actually have the leading roles in this, so those who expect Welles at the beginning should know that he doesn't even make his appearance until about an hour or so into the movie.

I made the mistake of thinking that too. This movie is very creative and innovative, and the stellar cinematography makes the dark streets of Vienna look a little more creepy and dark. Though this is considered an American movie classic, it actually hit theatres in Great Britain, and didn't even come here for a while.

This is also considered Alida Valli's ideal role, but for those who want her in other movies should check her out in "Eyes Without a Face" or "Suspiria". Joe Cotten found himself exteremely lucky to be in this film, because it completes the trio of great films her made in the 1940's, such as "Citizen Kane" and "Shadow of a Doubt".

Though his best role is in the second one listed, his acting is certainly well done here and definitely worth a look. "The Third Man" is a great example of film noir, and anybody who enjoys that type of movie will rave over this one.

Highly recommended.