third man character crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for the solution to "third man character crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to enjoying your puzzle.
Solutions for "third man character crossword clue" by Letter Count
9 Letters
HARRY LIME: The iconic, charming, and dangerous black-market racketeer from the classic 1949 film noir, 'The Third Man', famously portrayed by Orson Welles.
4 Letters
LIME: Often used as a shorter answer for the same character, referring to the surname of Harry Lime from 'The Third Man'.
More About "third man character crossword clue"
'The Third Man' is a quintessential British film noir directed by Carol Reed, released in 1949. Set in post-World War II Vienna, the film follows American pulp Western writer Holly Martins as he investigates the mysterious death of his old friend, Harry Lime. Lime, initially presumed dead, turns out to be a notorious black-market operative, leading to a thrilling pursuit through the city's bombed-out streets and sewers.
The character of Harry Lime, despite his limited screen time, dominates the film's narrative and atmosphere. His enigmatic presence, cynical philosophy, and the famous "cuckoo clock" speech have cemented his place as one of cinema's most memorable villains. His enduring legacy makes him a frequent and popular choice for crossword clues, testing solvers' knowledge of classic film and its iconic figures.
Understanding the context of such clues, particularly those referencing famous cultural works like 'The Third Man', is key to unlocking many crossword puzzles. Recognizing the film's title, its setting, and its most famous character significantly narrows down potential answers, making the solving process more efficient and enjoyable.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Film Noir Classics: Many crossword clues draw from classic cinema, especially film noir. Familiarize yourself with iconic films and characters from this genre, as they frequently appear.
- Think of Shorter Forms: If a clue points to a famous person or character, consider if only their first name or last name (like "LIME" for Harry Lime) could fit a shorter answer length.
- Look for Cultural Context: Clues like "third man character" are often direct references. If you recognize the source (a book, film, play), recall its key elements or prominent figures.
- Check for Common Crossword Themes: Films, literature, and historical figures are common themes. Building a general knowledge base in these areas can significantly improve your solving speed.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the main character in 'The Third Man'?
The central character often referenced in crosswords from 'The Third Man' is Harry Lime, a black-market racketeer played by Orson Welles. While Holly Martins is the protagonist, Harry Lime is the enigmatic figure around whom the plot revolves and is more frequently clued.
What year was 'The Third Man' film released?
'The Third Man' is a British film noir released in 1949, renowned for its atmospheric cinematography, zither score, and iconic performances.
Why is 'The Third Man' so popular in crosswords?
'The Third Man' is a classic and widely recognized film, making its characters and elements excellent fodder for crossword clues. Harry Lime, in particular, is a distinctive and famous character, fitting well into various letter counts (e.g., 'LIME' for four letters, 'HARRY LIME' for nine).