11th edition CIFF – 9-13 April 2025

The Third Man

United Kingdom | b&w | 1949 | English | 104 min. | d.s.

Set in post-World War II Vienna, this thriller - restored to mark its 75th anniversary - is widely regarded as one of cinema’s undisputed masterpieces. The Third Man is a masterclass in black-and-white storytelling, seamlessly blending classic film noir elements with a city teeming with spies, shadows, and secrets.

 

Holly Martins (Joseph Cotten) arrives in Vienna to learn that his friend Harry Lime (Orson Welles) has recently died under mysterious circumstances. Graham Greene’s screenplay is razor-sharp, filled with witty dialogue and intrigue. Despite limited screen time, Orson Welles leaves an unforgettable impression as Harry Lime. Carol Reed’s masterful direction, particularly his use of unconventional angles and lighting, enhances the film’s pervasive sense of unease and suspense. The score by Anton Karas, featuring the iconic zither, is equally memorable, marking a groundbreaking use of this instrument in film music.

Place: The Cinemas 

Date: April 11

Time: 15:45

Duration:104 min

Year in
Festival

2025

Director

Carol Reed

Country

United Kingdom

Language

English

Length

104

Year of Production

1949