The Third Man (Dramatized) characters

Appears from the start

An American writer of inexpensive Western novels who comes to divided, postwar Vienna after his old friend Harry Lime offers him work. He arrives expecting Harry's help and instead learns that Harry has just been buried. Loyal, impulsive, and unfamiliar with the occupied city, he begins asking questions when the official account of the death does not add up.

Appears from the start

Holly's charismatic longtime friend, who invited him to Vienna but is reported dead before Holly arrives. The occupation authorities describe him as a black-market criminal, while Holly initially remembers him as a generous companion and refuses to accept their judgment without proof.

Appears from the start

A British military policeman responsible for investigating Harry Lime. Calm and unsentimental, he tells Holly that Harry was deeply involved in Vienna's black market and urges him to leave the matter alone.

Appears from the start

Calloway's good-natured sergeant and assistant. He recognizes Holly's Westerns and treats the stranded writer with more patience than his superior does while helping with the Lime investigation.

Appears from the start

An actress living in Vienna who loved Harry Lime. Her residency papers leave her vulnerable to the Soviet authorities, but her gratitude and loyalty to Harry make her wary of Holly's questions and of the police.

Also known as Baron Kurtz

Appears from the start

An elegant associate of Harry who says he witnessed the fatal street accident. His polished account places him beside Harry at the end, but Holly notices inconsistencies in what he and the other witnesses claim happened.

Appears from the start

A Romanian businessman associated with Harry and one of the men said to have been present after the accident. He encourages Holly to abandon his inquiries while presenting himself as a helpful acquaintance.

Appears from the start

Harry's physician and another witness connected with the reported accident. Holly seeks him out while testing the story told by Harry's associates.

Appears from the start

A British cultural organizer who mistakes Holly for a more distinguished novelist and recruits him to address a literary gathering. The misunderstanding gives the penniless visitor temporary support in Vienna.