Watch The Bicycle Thief Online Free
Introduction
The Bicycle Thief, also known as Bicycle Thieves, is a classic Italian film directed by Vittorio De Sica. It was released in 1948 and is considered one of the greatest films ever made. The film tells the story of a poor man named Antonio Ricci who struggles to find work after World War II. He finally finds a job, but it requires him to have a bicycle. When his bicycle is stolen, he and his son Bruno search the streets of Rome in an attempt to find it.
Where to Watch The Bicycle Thief Online Free
There are several websites where you can watch The Bicycle Thief online for free. One of the best places to look is on YouTube. The film is available in its entirety on the platform, and you can watch it in high definition.
Another website where you can watch The Bicycle Thief online for free is Archive.org. The website has a vast collection of films, books, and music that are in the public domain. You can watch The Bicycle Thief on the website or download it for later viewing.
Finally, you can watch The Bicycle Thief online for free on Kanopy. This website offers a selection of films for free, as long as you have a valid library card. If your local library participates in the Kanopy program, you can watch The Bicycle Thief and other classic films at no cost.
The Bicycle Thief Plot Summary
The Bicycle Thief is a simple story that focuses on the struggles of a poor family in post-World War II Rome. Antonio Ricci, the father, finally finds a job that requires him to have a bicycle. He pawns his family's bedsheets to buy a bicycle, but it is stolen on his first day of work.
Antonio and his son Bruno search the streets of Rome in an attempt to find the bicycle. They visit various locations, including a flea market and a brothel, but they are unable to locate the thief. Eventually, they give up and decide to steal another bicycle. However, they are caught by the police and humiliated in front of a crowd of people.
The film ends on a somber note, with Antonio and Bruno walking away from the scene, defeated and hopeless.
The Bicycle Thief Cast
The Bicycle Thief has a relatively unknown cast, with the exception of Lamberto Maggiorani, who plays the lead role of Antonio Ricci. Maggiorani was not a professional actor and was chosen for the role because he looked like an ordinary man. Enzo Staiola plays the role of Bruno, Antonio's young son.
The Bicycle Thief Legacy
The Bicycle Thief is considered a classic of Italian neorealism, a film movement that focused on the struggles of ordinary people in post-World War II Italy. The film is praised for its realistic portrayal of poverty and its use of non-professional actors.
The Bicycle Thief has influenced countless filmmakers, including Martin Scorsese, who has cited it as one of his favorite films. The film has also been referenced in popular culture, including in the television show The Sopranos.
Conclusion
The Bicycle Thief is a classic film that tells a simple but powerful story. It is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in Italian cinema or in films that explore the struggles of ordinary people. With the availability of the film online for free, there is no excuse not to watch this masterpiece.