The Third Man

Definition

The Third Man is a classic film noir released in 1949, directed by Carol Reed and written by Graham Greene. It is renowned for its striking cinematography, atmospheric setting in post-World War II Vienna, and its complex narrative structure that embodies the hallmark features of film noir, including moral ambiguity and an intricate plot. The film’s use of shadow and light draws heavily from German Expressionism, reflecting the influence of this movement on the visual style and themes of film noir.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Third Man features a famous zither score composed by Anton Karas, which became iconic and greatly contributed to the film's unique atmosphere.
2. The film's narrative revolves around a writer named Holly Martins who investigates the mysterious death of his friend Harry Lime, uncovering dark secrets along the way.
3. Set against the backdrop of post-war Vienna, the film's visual style includes stark contrasts between light and shadow that evoke feelings of tension and unease.
4. Orson Welles' performance as Harry Lime is legendary and he is credited with delivering one of cinema's most memorable lines: 'In Italy for 30 years under the Borgias they had warfare, terror, murder, and bloodshed… But they produced Michelangelo and the Renaissance.'
5. The Third Man is often considered a quintessential example of film noir due to its exploration of themes such as betrayal, deception, and the duality of human nature.

Review Questions

• How does The Third Man exemplify the characteristics of film noir through its characters and narrative structure?
  • The Third Man showcases film noir characteristics through its morally ambiguous characters, particularly Holly Martins and Harry Lime. The complex narrative unfolds with twists that keep viewers guessing about each character's true intentions. The film's reliance on shadowy visuals and a somber tone further enhances the sense of intrigue and existential dread typical of the genre.
• Discuss how German Expressionism influenced the visual style of The Third Man and contributed to its overall impact as a film noir.
  • German Expressionism significantly shaped the visual style of The Third Man through its use of chiaroscuro lighting and distorted angles that create a sense of unease. The film's cinematographer, Robert Krasker, employed these techniques to reflect the chaos of post-war Vienna while enhancing the psychological depth of the characters. This fusion of expressionist visuals with noir elements contributes to the film's lasting impact and aesthetic richness.
• Evaluate how The Third Man reflects broader themes within post-war cinema while remaining distinctively aligned with the principles of film noir.
  • The Third Man reflects broader themes of disillusionment and moral ambiguity prevalent in post-war cinema, exploring how individuals navigate a fractured society. While it aligns with film noir through its dark tone and complex characters, it stands out due to its unique setting in Vienna's post-war landscape. This combination allows the film to comment on both personal betrayal and the larger societal consequences of war, making it a timeless piece that resonates with viewers across generations.

Related terms

Film Noir: A cinematic style characterized by its dark themes, moral ambiguity, and visual aesthetics, often featuring crime, existential dread, and femme fatales.

German Expressionism: An artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century in Germany, known for its distorted visuals, exaggerated forms, and emphasis on emotional experience over realism.

Cinematography:

The art and technique of capturing visual images for film, which plays a crucial role in establishing mood, atmosphere, and narrative style.