Bicycle Thieves - One of the Best 10 films of all time!

Cinematheque Ontario presents a new print screening
of Vittorio De Sica’s masterpiece THE BICYCLE THIEF.

Considered on most critics list as one of the BEST 10 films
of all time.

THE BICYCLE THIEF (LADRI DI BICICLETTE) (Italy 1948) *****
Directed by Vittorio De Sica

Arguably the best of the Italian neo-realist films set after World War II depicting the poverty of the Italian people and starring non-professional actors in real locations, THE BICYCLE THIEF (or sometimes called BICYCLE THIEVES) has been and has remained on most critics lists (including mine) as one of the best 10 films of all time.

The simple and incredibly moving story concerns a man, Ricci Antonio (Lamberto Maggiorani) finally getting a job posting bills.  This requires him to own a bicycle which he gets after he and his wife sells off their bridal sheets.  But disaster arrives in the form of the theft of his bike on the first day of the job.  The rest of the film has him and his young son, Bruno (Enzo Staiola) searching for the stolen good.

What is most remarkable about De Sica’s film is its depiction of the best and worst of humanity that results from desperate times.  The final decision Ricci makes to steal a bike, thus making him no better than the first thief is a crucial one.  When finally disgraced in front of his son, De Sica demonstrates the ultimate low in a man’s life.  Yet the only available redemption is attained as the father slowly squeezes the hand of his son as they eventually walk home towards the darkness.

De Sica also paints a vivid picture of the times after WWII.  The prejudice against the Germans, the need for the protection of numbers and family and the hope of a better life are just a few of the moods effectively portrayed.  Staiola as the young boy deserves special mention for the most heartfelt yet believable performance by a child.  He creates the most touching scene when his father hits and blames him for losing chase of a thief.

LADRI DI BICICLETTE will be screened in a new 35mm print.  Needless to say, a must-see!

(4 Screenings at the Cinematheque Ontario:
Friday July 10, 7pm
Saturday, July 11, 7 pm
Thursday July 16, 7 pm
Saturday July 18, 4.30 pm)