Post-war Vienna provides a gritty backdrop of bombed-out buildings and rubble-strewn streets for The Third Man, the prototypical noir thriller. Orson Welles plays Harry Lime, who goes missing just as his old friend arrives from America to see him. The American, played by Joseph Cotten, soon finds himself entangled in the intrigues of the city -- divided by war and haven to ruthless smugglers. Director Reed brings together an intriguing mystery (written by Graham Greene), compelling characters, superb acting, skilled cinematography, and a haunting zither score to make one of the classic films of all time.

Nate Grover