Directed by Carol Reed and starring Orson Welles, 'The Third Man' is a 1949 film noir set in Allied-occupied Vienna after World War 2. The film was voted the greatest British film of all time by the British Film Institute (BFI) in 1999.
Plot and Cast
The story follows Holly Martins, played by Joseph Cotten, who arrives in Vienna to accept a job from his friend Harry Lime, portrayed by Orson Welles. Martins soon discovers that Lime has suddenly died. Staying in the city, he becomes infatuated with the deceased man's girlfriend, Anna Schmidt, played by Alida Valli.
Cinematography and Legacy
The film is notable for its black and white German Expressionist-style cinematography, helmed by Robert Krasker. Welles, who had written, produced, directed and starred in 'Citizen Kane' at age 25, later led the cast of 'The Third Man,' which also features Cotten, his co-star from 'Citizen Kane.'
Broadcast Details
'The Third Man' is on BBC Two at 10:15am this Saturday morning and will be streaming on BBC iPlayer for a limited time afterwards.
