Explore the enduring legacy of the iconic film 'The Third Man' and its profound connection to post-war Vienna. The museum showcases a vast collection of original exhibits and documents that bring to life the film's era, its production, and the historical context of the divided city.
The Third Man Museum is dedicated to the iconic British-American production "The Third Man," filmed in post-war Vienna and released in 1949. This private museum, run by enthusiasts Gerhard Strassgschwandtner and Karin Höfler, offers a deep dive into both the film and the historical context of its setting.
The museum's collection on 'The Third Man' features over 3000 original exhibits and documents spanning premieres and rereleases from more than 20 countries. Visitors can see 420 cover versions of the 'Harry Lime Theme,' Anton Karas's zither, original scripts, cameras used in Vienna, and the cap of Little Hansel, alongside a short screening of the film. The collection on Postwar Vienna contextualizes the film by illustrating the daily life of the era, characterized by bombed-out buildings, scarcity, black markets, and the presence of occupying powers (USA, Great Britain, France, USSR). Movie quotes are used to provide insights into the time and offer an unusual perspective on history, making the museum a crucial destination for film fans and those interested in Vienna's post-war reconstruction.