The Third Man

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.