“A brilliant and devastating film.” Bosley Crowther, New York Times
“A wholly satisfying film in that de Sica has so simplified and mastered the mechanics of the job that nothing stands between you and his intention.” - Richard Winnington, Sight & Sound
Friday, June 16 & Saturday, June 24 | An integral work of the Italian neorealism movement, De Sica’s BICYCLE THIEVES is an essential portrait of post-World War II devastation and a heartbreaking depiction of pride. On the first day of his new job, Antonio’s (Lamberto Maggiorani) bicycle—which he needs for work—is stolen. With his young son Bruno (Enzo Staiola) at his side, he begins combing the streets of Rome to find the thief and retrieve the bicycle. As the desperate search continues and their spirits falter, the magnitude of De Sica’s brilliance is realized, concluding with the film’s iconic and crushing final frames.
Awards & Nominations
Winner - Honorary Academy Award
Winner - Best Film, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Story, Best Cinematography, Best Score, Italian National Syndicate of Film Journalists
Daddy Issues: Paternal relationships—from the challenging to the cherished—have been consistent fodder for the big screen. In the ten films of our Daddy Issues series—timed perfectly for you to celebrate (or denounce) Father’s Day—we take a closer look at the foundational father figure in film. From the heroic to the delinquent, from the absent to the affable, the fathers of Daddy Issues have raised us, onscreen and off. View full series.