Picture
The post-World War II era was one of the greatest struggles for Europeans in the 1940s. Not everyone was fortunate to have food on their tables, nice houses in which to live, and jobs to make money. The Bicycle Thief,  directed by Vittorio De Sica, is an Italian film about a father and a son who struggles to find their stolen bicycle that is necessary for the family's economic stability. 

Lamberto Maggiorani plays the father, Antonio Ricci, and Enzo Staiola plays the son, Bruno Ricci. Antonio and Bruno go on a journey to find the stolen bicycle and the thief. However, when they finally find the thief, they can't find any evidence to prove that the thief stole the bicycle. Out of desperation, Antonio ends up stealing another person's bicycle and is almost arrested; however, the victim chooses not to place charges because he sees that Bruno, Antonio's son, is broken-hearted after seeing his father steal the bicycle. In the end, Antonio and Bruno end up going home without the bicycle. 

This film visually depicts the hardships that Italians from the post-World War II era went through. It shows the great desperation for money and survival during the time through the characters' varying emotional states and the gritty landscape. At first, the movie seems happy and uplifting because of the fact that the father is able to get a job. However, it turns into an adventurous, yet saddening journey that shows the immense desperation of a father to provide for his family. It also shows the heart of a loving son who tries to help his father in every possible way, but the cruel overwhelms his tiny gestures of aid.

In this film, there are some scenes that captured my attention, such as the scene when Bruno is crying and tugging on his father's coat because his father is being harassed by the police. It creates a whole new level of understanding for the victim to see past the mistake and to show sympathy for Antonio. Also, the scene when Antonio and Bruno eats at a fancy restaurant next to a rich family; this shows the great gap between the rich and the poor people after the world war. This film makes me realize how important it is to appreciate the little things that we have in life because not everyone is fortunate enough to have what we have. 

In my opinion, the setting really provides a feel of poverty and struggle. Also, the actors' performances are simultaneously realistic and endearing. 

Overall, this film is something that will change your perspective in life and how you live it. If you want to watch a film that will show appreciation for your family and friends, then this is a must in your movie list.

Gwen Adao



    

 
Picture
Many children have an item of comfort that they keep near them at all times such as a blanket, a pillow, or a stuffed animal. In Albert Lamorisse’s famous film, a young boy chooses to keep a red balloon as his close friend. The Red Balloon is a 1956 short film written and directed by Lamorisse, an award-winning screenplay writer and director. The storyline is simple, yet it is a captivating experience for the eyes of many who have watched the film. 
 
Lamorisse’s son, Pascal Lamorisse, stars as the young boy in the movie,
who happens to find a red balloon on his way to school one day. From that day on, the boy and the balloon become best of friends. The longer the boy keeps the balloon in his possession, the more he notices that the balloon has a mind of its own. The red balloon seems to follow him everywhere and it always finds its way back to the boy when it gets lost. The red balloon and the boy embark on many adventures together, going around the city to even attending church. And of course in every story, there are obstacles. A bunch of other young boys want the balloon for themselves, so they all decide to try and take the balloon from the young boy.

The red balloon is ultimate loser in this film as its life is extinguished in the end, but this story closes with a feeling of unity. Since the red balloon is gone, all the balloons from the city gather together, find the young boy, and carry him away to the heavens. Many have interpreted this final scene as the balloons carrying the young boy away to a place where children and balloons can be friends forever. 

This is a must-see classic film because of its incredible story line and its fascinating scenes. The musical score is uplifting and
positive. As simple as the story, it provides moral lessons not only for children, but for grown adults as well. If you like intriguing and adorable flicks, this is a piece that you must watch! It will tickle your childhood memories and bring you into a new world of unique relationships.

Gwen Adao