Things to Watch For in Ladri di biciclette

• Note DeSica followed neorealistic principles in the film. One of these principles was to use nonprofessional actors. Lamberto Maggiorani (Antonio) was a metal worker. Interestingly, DeSica claimed that an American producer offered him millions to make the film with Cary Grant as the lead, while keeping to Neorealist principles otherwise. Can you name, at least, three other neorealist principles adhered to in the film?
  
• Note how Antonio is portrayed as an Everyman throughout the film. How does DeSica accomplish this visually? For one example, look at the conclusion of the film.
  
• Note the low angle shot of the wall of linens in the pawn shop and the tiny window Antonio and his wife are framed in.  What does this signify?
  
• Note the name of Antonio's bicycle is Fides, which means faith or reliance.
  
• Note that although Bruno is only 8 he has a full-time job. What does he do?
  
• What, specifically, does Antonio's job entail? How is this ironic?
  
• Note how the government, the trade union, the police, and the church are portrayed.
  
• Who can Antonio depend upon?
  
• Note the contrast between Antonio and Bruno vs. the rich in the pizzeria scene. How does DeSica illustrate this visually and what comment does Antonio make to reinforce the contrast?
  
• Note when Antonio strikes Bruno.
  
• Where does Antonio tell Bruno to wait for him and what happens when Antonio returns there?  What scene with Bruno sets up this scene?
  
• Note how DeSica uses physical distance between Antonio and Bruno to illustrate psychological distance.
  
• Note the famous gesture at the end of the film. What do you make of it?
  
• Why is the proper title for the film Bicycle Thieves and not Bicycle Thief as it was originally titled in English?
  
• You could argue that the film is about what Antonio loses and fails to recover and what he loses and succeeds in regaining. Identify each.
  
• Trivia Question: Lamberto Maggiorani's lean, hungry, dirty look reminds me of an American actor in a similar, and quite famous, role in an Oscar-winning American film. Can you name the actor and the film?