Name: The Third Man
Start: 2026-07-02T14:45:00+01:00
Location: Mall Gardens. Clifton Village

Widely regarded as one of the greatest British films ever made, The Third Man is a masterpiece of post-war cinema. Set amidst the shadows and ruins of occupied Vienna, this gripping film noir follows an American writer investigating the mysterious death of an old friend, only to uncover a web of deception, intrigue and betrayal.
Featuring unforgettable performances from Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli and Orson Welles, the film is renowned for its atmospheric location photography, razor-sharp screenplay and Anton Karas's iconic zither score. More than seventy-five years after its release, it remains as suspenseful, stylish and influential as ever.
The Bristol connection comes via Trevor Howard, whose portrayal of the weary but determined Major Calloway is often regarded as one of the film's standout performances. Educated at nearby Clifton College and commemorated with a plaque at the Redgrave Theatre, just a short walk from the Mall Gardens, Howard considered The Third Man the proudest achievement of his distinguished career. It is a fitting inclusion in our Bristol In Focus programme celebrating the city's connections to cinema history.
Before the screening, enjoy the full Bristol Film Festival summer experience in the beautiful Mall Gardens in the heart of Clifton Village. Browse our Summer Gifts Fair showcasing independent Bristol makers, relax with drinks and food from local vendors, and soak up the atmosphere in our central arena.
When it's time for the film, take your seat in one of our covered outdoor cinema spaces, equipped with a state-of-the-art LED screen and wireless headphones, ensuring a fantastic viewing experience whatever the weather.