The Third Man
The Criterion Collection
Pulp novelist Holly Martins travels to shadowy, postwar Vienna, only to find himself investigating the mysterious death of an old friend, black-market opportunist Harry Lime, and thus begins this legendary tale of love, deception, and murder. Thanks to brilliant performances by Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, and Orson Welles; Anton Karas's evocative zither score; Graham Greene's razor-sharp dialogue; and Robert Krasker's haunting deep focus shots, off-kilter angles, and dramatic use of light and shadow, The Third Man, directed by the inimitable Carol Reed, only grows in stature as the years pass.
Member Reviews
A Masterpiece - sal33
i always meant to see this film but never got around to it. This is a great film. I can not think of any fault with the film. It is thoroughly enjoyable and engrossing.
the characters have depth and the story is engaging. There are enough twists and turns to keep the usual thrill seeker happy and enough development to lend some weight to the plot.
Excellent film.A Great Film... - JayZ932
I just had the pleasure of watching this movie for the first time last night, but it seems as though I've seen it before. Even if you've never seen The Third Man, you've seen dozens and dozens of flicks that borrowed and imitated its numerous plot twists and turns. A terrific film noir that no movie buff can be without; this one works best if you go in knowing nothing at all and let the movie work its own magic.
The Criterion Blu-ray is an even better version than this regular DVD, and it is loaded with hours upon hours of supplemental material giving you the most bang for your hard earned buck. If you want to be amazed by the art of filmmaking, this is a prime place to start.The Third Man - lawrie
I agree totally with Alexandra's review...this film is a Classic in every sense of the word.
To see it, in it's beautifully restored version by the experts at Criterion, on a high def set is a revelation! Those stark contrast B/W night scenes in Vienna are more striking than any possible colour film version might have rendered.
Welles is at his usual sardonic best, and the background "commentary" version reveals that he only appears onscreen for about eight minutes....amazingly short time for such an impact on the film. Also, that Orson wrote that famous "cuckoo clock" dialogue himself...what a genius was this tragically underused Giant of cinema!
The Third Man is a film to be added to your library...one of those rare gems that can be watched (like Casablanca) at least once or twice a year, without ever becoming tiresome.
Member Reviews
Read All...
A Masterpiece - sal33
i always meant to see this film but never got around to it. This is a great film. I can not think of any fault with the film. It is thoroughly enjoyable and engrossing.
the characters have depth and the story is engaging. There are enough twists and ...A Great Film... - JayZ932
I just had the pleasure of watching this movie for the first time last night, but it seems as though I've seen it before. Even if you've never seen The Third Man, you've seen dozens and dozens of flicks that borrowed and imitated its numerous plot twists and ...The Third Man - lawrie
I agree totally with Alexandra's review...this film is a Classic in every sense of the word.
To see it, in it's beautifully restored version by the experts at Criterion, on a high def set is a revelation! Those stark contrast B/W night scenes in Vienna ...