“Bicycle Thieves” also known as “Bicycle Thief” 1948 is an Italian drama that presents a Rome family struggling with unemployment, poverty, and the aftermath of World War II.  Director Vittorio De Sica captures this subsistence life with exceptional use of black and white cinematography, melancholy music, on location street scenes, untrained actors, and devastating events.  The movie won an Academy Award (Special Award) as did Mr. De Sica’s 1946 film “Shoeshine”.

Lamberto Maggiorani plays Antonio Ricci who is hired to hang outdoor wall posters in an assigned area, and he must have a bicycle for the work.  Antonio’s supportive and strong-willed wife Maria is played by Lianella Carell.  Enzo Staiola is masterful as Bruno, Antonio’s 8-year-old son.  The large supportive cast enhances this drama of everyday life.  This film is unforgettable.