Bicycle Theif
Another fine example of neorealism is The Bicycle Thief (1948), written by Cesare Zavattini and directed by Vittorio De Sica. The narrative of this film unfolds in post-W.W.II times. The film is a portrait of the post-war Italian disadvantaged class (the majority) in their search for self-respect. It is a time of struggle for the Italian people, amplified by a shortage of employment and lack of social services. In the first scenes of the film, these conditions are evident as Antonio Ricci (Lamberto Maggiorami) meets his spouse Maria (Lianalla Carell) on his way back home. We see the "men" arguing at the employment "office" as the "women" argue about the shortage of water. Although the director's pessimism drives the plot, it is ultimately the clash with human optimism which gives this film affective power. Antonio's new job can bring his family new hopes and happiness, which are drastically destroyed when his bicycle is stolen. The banal circumstances are brought to life when it is realized that a modest bicycle is such an important element in determining the future survival of the Ricci family. Human optimism is there, beginning with Antonio's
Antonio's frustration of missing the thief for a second time fuels the hopelessness in continuing his search. The character of Bruno played a critical role in this film, signifying the purity of love and understanding in times of trial. The restaurant scene reflects the Italian Sunday tradition, as the more affluent families went out to treat themselves to a restaurant and enjoyed the Sabbath. Bruno's love for his family and his acceptance of his father after witnessing the attempted robbery are exemplary. The final scene shows Antonio and Bruno in immense emotional pain, walking amongst an indifferent stadium crowd. Self-respect and all the related values such as pride, dignity, modesty and honor are very important in Italian society. He is striking, but not in his dialogue as much in his facial expressions. This foolish act places Antonio in an even more humiliating situation, as he is caught in the act and placed under citizen arrest. Bruno's contributions to the Ricci family make him a "man" and strip him of his innocence. Witness Bruno, whom at a young age, works full time at a gas station. This signifies the last meal before a bleak Monday, where once again Antonio will find himself without a bike and without a job. In the end, Love is human optimism. The ultimate message of human optimism is Bruno.
Common topics in this essay:
Antonio Bruno,
Lianalla Carell,
Baiocco Baiocco's,
Witness Bruno,
De Sica,
Enzo Staicca,
human optimism,
,
Bicycle Thief,
Lamberto Maggiorami,
Cesare Zavattini,
antonio bruno,
italian society,
ricci family,
job bring,
|
Acceptance Essays
