Ladri di biciclette (1948)

by guestwriter

Ladri di biciclette (Bicycle Thieves), directed by one of the emblematic figures of the Italian Neorealism movement, Vittorio De Sica, is one of cinema’s greatest achievements. After WWII Italy was devastated by Allies’ bombardments. Therefore, the Cinecitta studios were forced to shelter refugees. In these special circumstances the neorealistic directors came with the idea to film on streets and in open spaces using non-professional actors.

This film is amazing probably due to its humanistic side and its simple story line. When facing financial difficulties people are willing to do all sorts of things only to survive. Antonio, an unemployed person, finds it hard to get a job during the post-war times. When he finally succeeds, a bicycle becomes his most precious possession. One of the most representative movies of its genre and one of the best of the world cinema.