Harold's Old Time Radio Episode Summary: "The Lives of Harry Lime 51-08-03 (01) Too Many Crooks" Release Date: April 1, 2025

Introduction

"The Lives of Harry Lime," a renowned character immortalized by Orson Welles in The Third Man, is the focal point of this episode titled "Too Many Crooks." This installment delves deeper into Harry Lime's elusive existence, exploring his intricate involvement in a complex bank robbery scheme in Budapest. Set against the backdrop of post-war Central Europe, the episode masterfully intertwines suspense, wit, and the quintessential charm of the Golden Age of Radio.

Plot Overview

Harry Lime's Return to Budapest

The episode opens with Orson Welles reprising his role as Harry Lime, who announces his resurrection beyond his apparent demise in Vienna’s sewers. (00:22) Harry receives a mysterious telegram from a man named Fety, requesting his expertise in preventing a bank robbery. Motivated by his affinity for Budapest and its culinary delights, Harry promptly travels to Hungary to assist.

Encounter with Lulu

Upon arrival, Harry establishes a flower shop near the bank, setting the stage for his investigation. His interaction with Lulu, initially mistaken as an old acquaintance named Lily, reveals tensions and past associations linked to the Corelli gang—the original bank robbers. (03:12) Their banter underscores the underlying complexities and hidden motives driving the characters.

Meeting Mr. Feketty

Harry is ushered into a meeting with Mr. Feketty, a senior figure in the bank, who unveils a peculiar proposition: a $20,000 reward (equivalent to Hungarian pengos) for preventing the impending robbery before it occurs. (06:02) The conversation is laced with tension and subtle threats, as Mr. Feketty manipulates Harry into uncovering the plot's intricacies.

Unraveling the Scheme

As the dialogue progresses, Harry employs his sharp wit to dissect Mr. Feketty's plan. He discerns that the scheme involves preemptive theft, where the reward is offered before the robbery to manipulate Harry into facilitating their covert operation. (07:15) The revelation of Fodor Los Loss, the bank's vice president, as a key player introduces another layer of deceit and ambition within the bank's hierarchy.

Meeting Lulu Again

Harry's subsequent visit to Lulu provides critical insights into her role in the conspiracy. She directs him to a café, creating a rendezvous point that becomes pivotal in foiling the robbery. (15:31) Their interaction hints at Lulu's ulterior motives and her entanglement with both Harry and Mr. Feketty.

Execution of the Plan

On the night of the planned robbery, the Corelli gang proceeds with their tunnel excavation beneath the bank. Simultaneously, Feketty implements his plan to secure the money in a filing cabinet, intending to implicate Fodor as the scapegoat. (22:25) However, Harry anticipates the deceit and orchestrates a confrontation that leads to Mr. Feketty’s arrest, effectively dismantling the conspiracy.

Conclusion

The episode culminates with Harry outsmarting the crooks, ensuring that justice prevails while exposing the greed and treachery of those involved. His final remarks blend humor and cynicism, reflecting on the downfall of corrupt individuals who, despite their elaborate schemes, ultimately falter. (23:45)

Key Characters and Dynamics

• Harry Lime (Orson Welles): The enigmatic anti-hero, whose intellect and charm drive the narrative. His return serves as a catalyst for uncovering the bank's hidden malfeasance.

  “Too many crooks spoil the goulash.” (15:02)

• Mr. Feketty: A senior bank official with ulterior motives, orchestrating the robbery under the guise of seeking Harry's help. His jealousy and ambition are central to the plot's development.

  “What comes next? You, I suppose. You come a half hour later with a dark lantern and a gunny sack.” (11:29)

• Lulu: A pivotal figure connected to both Harry and Mr. Feketty. Her dual roles and conflicting loyalties add depth to the intricate scheme.

  “Here you gardenias, Harry. Now get out of here.” (03:28)

• Fodor Los Loss: The bank’s vice president, depicted as an unprincipled and ambitious character, unwittingly entangled in the conspiracy.

  “He is the brain of a peckworm bird and the charm of a worm.” (07:36)

Notable Quotes and Moments

1. Harry's Introduction:

   "The lives of Harry Lime had many lives, and I can recount all of them. How do I know? Very simple. Because my name is Harry Lime." (00:22)

2. Measuring Mr. Feketty’s Intentions:

   "You put private detectives on my trail. You found me, made me a very substantial down payment on services to be rendered." (05:15)

3. Revealing the Reward Plot:

   “Only after a bank has been robbed. Exactly.” (06:36)

4. Harry's Sarcasm on the Plan:

   “And you also wanted me to swear at the Corelli's. And if you yourself are foolish enough to go breaking the law, you'll just have to tell it to the judge.” (23:00)

5. Final Reflection:

   “Too many crooks spoil the goulash.” (23:45)

Themes and Insights

• Deception and Manipulation: The episode intricately explores how characters manipulate one another for personal gain, highlighting the thin line between ally and adversary.

• Ambition and Greed: Mr. Feketty’s and Fodor’s actions are driven by unchecked ambition, serving as a critique of corporate greed and moral corruption.

• Cleverness and Wit: Harry Lime’s ability to outsmart his adversaries underscores the triumph of intelligence and cunning over deceit.

• Justice and Retribution: The narrative reinforces the idea that treachery, no matter how well-orchestrated, eventually leads to downfall and justice.

Conclusion

"Too Many Crooks" serves as a compelling expansion of Harry Lime's legacy, blending suspenseful storytelling with sharp dialogue and complex character dynamics. Through meticulous plotting and Orson Welles' iconic portrayal, the episode offers listeners a captivating journey into the shadowy underbelly of Budapest's financial world. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of old-time radio dramas, seamlessly merging nostalgia with timeless themes of deception and justice.

Stay tuned for the next installment of "The Lives of Harry Lime" as the saga continues to unravel the multifaceted lives of one of radio’s most intriguing characters.