Counterfilms is proud to present Bicycle Theives by Vittorio De Sica and Cesare Zavattini.
The classic of Neorealism,
One of the most beautiful films of Italian cinema.
Bicycle Thieves is the emotional journey
Of a father and son,
Through impoverished post-war Rome.
By exploring the layers of meaning
In a mundane act -
A bike being stolen
It lays bare the tensions and poignance
Of working class life
In an indifferent, capitalist system.
Emotionally, politically and culturally as relevant now as it was in the 1950’s, De Sica’s masterpiece using non professional actors, real locations and working class issues was revolutionary at the time, and the film has been massively influential for many directors, including Ken Loach, whose film, Kes, was our last screening.
Impassioned, powerful and gripping, it combines great storytelling, documentary style recording of everyday life in postwar Rome, and a strong portrayal of the hardships and heroism of the victims of the capitalist system.
This screening will introduced by independent film scholar Martin Hall, and discussion and socialising will be encouraged afterwards.
Counterfilms is dedicated to showing films in Manchester with a strong message of social justice, creating a space for political education and reflection. It is supported by Counterfire, an organisation committed to transforming society from one based on profit to one built on the needs of working people.
