Bicycle Thieves
Unemployed Antonio is elated when he finally finds work hanging posters around war-torn Rome. However on his first day, his bicycle—essential to his work—gets stolen. His job is doomed unless he can find the thief. With the help of his son, Antonio combs the city, becoming desperate for justice.
Critics Sentiment
Released Antonio walks with Bruno who takes his hand
Antonio files complaint but police offer little help
The film rises dramatically from the bureaucratic frustration of the police complaint to the devastating moral collapse when Antonio attempts theft himself.
The film builds steadily from its realistic opening through increasingly desperate search sequences, peaking with the restaurant scene's poignant class commentary. The final act delivers devastating emotional impact as Antonio's moral fall leads to one of cinema's most transcendent endings.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 22
Lamberto Maggiorani
Antonio
Enzo Staiola
Bruno
Lianella Carell
Maria
Gino Saltamerenda
Baiocco
Vittorio Antonucci
Alfredo Catelli, The Thief
Giulio Chiari
The Beggar
Elena Altieri
The Charitable Lady
Carlo Jachino
A Beggar
Michele Sakara
Secretary of the Charity Organization
Emma Druetti
Eolo Capritti
Carabiniere (uncredited)
Fausto Guerzoni
Amateur Actor (uncredited)
Giulio Battiferri
Citizen Who Protects the Real Thief (uncredited)
Sergio Leone
A Seminary Student (uncredited)
Mario Meniconi
Meniconi, the Street Sweeper (uncredited)
Checco Rissone
Guard in Piazza Vittorio (uncredited)
Peppino Spadaro
Police Officer (uncredited)
Nando Bruno
(uncredited)
Memmo Carotenuto
(uncredited)
Umberto Spadaro
(uncredited)
Crew
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