The Third Man

The Third Man

Year: 1949

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Carol Reed

MysteryThrillerFilm-Noir

In postwar Vienna, pulp fiction writer Holly Martins travels to meet his childhood friend, only to discover he is dead. A mysterious "third man" was reportedly present at the scene, prompting Martins to investigate. His inquiries lead him into a dangerous conspiracy involving British officer Maj. Calloway and a complex web of deceit and tragic circumstances. The story unfolds against the atmospheric backdrop of Vienna, a city struggling to rebuild after the war.

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Timeline – The Third Man (1949)

Trace every key event in The Third Man (1949) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Arrival in Vienna

Holly Martins arrives in post-World War II Vienna, looking forward to meeting his friend Harry Lime. However, he is surprised to find that Harry is not waiting for him at the station, prompting concern about his whereabouts.

Vienna, Austria
2

Discovery of Harry's Death

Holly visits Harry's flat only to learn from the porter that Harry has died after being hit by a truck. This shocking news sends Holly into a state of grief and confusion, leading him to attend Harry's funeral.

Harry's apartment, Vienna
3

The Funeral Service

At Harry's funeral, Holly meets Major Calloway, who informs him that Harry was not just a friend but also a murderer involved in racketeering. This revelation infuriates Holly, igniting a determination to uncover the truth about Harry's death.

Cemetery, Vienna
4

Meeting Baron Kurtz

Holly meets Baron Kurtz, who claims to be a friend of Harry's. During their discussion, Kurtz recounts the events surrounding Harry's death, raising more questions in Holly's mind about the circumstances of his friend's demise.

Café, Vienna
5

Anna Schmidt's Connection

Holly learns about Anna Schmidt, an actress and Harry's companion, while investigating Harry's past. Meeting Anna allows Holly to glean more insight into Harry's character and further complicates his feelings toward the case.

Theater, Vienna
6

Questioning the Porter

Holly and Anna talk to the porter again, where he reveals critical information that contradicts Kurtz’s version of events. This discovery deepens Holly's suspicion that Harry's death was not an accident, challenging what he had been led to believe.

Harry's apartment, Vienna
7

Police Inquisition

The police examine Anna's apartment, leading to revelations about her forged passport. Holly learns Anna's life is in danger, reinforcing his commitment to uncovering the truth behind Harry's death.

Anna's apartment, Vienna
8

Holly Meets Harry

Holly unexpectedly encounters Harry, who reveals he is alive and has been hiding. The reunion is fraught with tension as Harry seems unrepentant about his past actions, complicating Holly's feelings toward his old friend.

Ferris wheel, Vienna
9

Calloway's Evidence

Calloway presents damning evidence against Harry, proving his involvement in a penicillin racket that harmed many, including children. This information devastates Holly, forcing him to confront the reality of Harry's life and choices.

International police station
10

Betrayal and Choices

Having struck a deal with Calloway to help Anna escape, Holly feels trapped between loyalty to Harry and moral obligation. When Anna rejects him for his betrayal, Holly is left disheartened, struggling with his choices.

Train station, Vienna
11

Confrontation in the Sewers

In a tense chase through the sewers, Holly tracks down Harry after the police corner him. An emotional confrontation unfolds, resulting in tragic consequences for both men as they grapple with friendship, betrayal, and justice.

Sewers of Vienna
12

Final Encounter

Holly faces Harry one last time, deciding whether to take the shot that could end Harry's life. The desperation in Harry's eyes asks for mercy, leaving Holly with a heavy moral choice that ultimately defines their friendship.

Sewers of Vienna
13

Harry's Second Funeral

After Harry's death, Holly attends his second funeral alongside Anna and Calloway. The somber event deepens Holly's sorrow and transforms his understanding of friendship and loss in a post-war world.

Cemetery, Vienna
14

Parting Ways

Holly attempts to reconnect with Anna as she walks by after Harry's funeral. However, she ignores him, leaving Holly disheartened, reflecting on the emotional toll of love and betrayal against the backdrop of a war-torn city.

Cemetery trail, Vienna

Last Updated: January 19, 2025 at 18:49

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