Fuckin French and their sentimental movies, except when they are Italian. It’s like 1940s Peter Weller here. Maybe it’s Buckaroo Banzai in the 1946th dimension? I figured this would be a good palette cleanser after the recent spate of movie madnesses I’ve delved into this month. Plus it’s always been on “The List” of films to see, being heralded by some as a “Classic.” Even in the blacks, whites and greys, the monochrome does not matter as the story plays out. Hard times make for good dramas. This is definitely one of them.
Down and out in 1946 Paris in post-war doldrums. Antonio lucks out and actually gets a job assignment, dozens are still waiting. It’s to post bills, so a legit one too, apparently. Problem is? He needs a bike. Job requirement. His is in hock to feed his wife and two kids. Maria, his wife? Tough bitch. But she makes things happen. Those pawn shops then were a real doozy. But bike re-acquired, new job first day training in 5 minutes, annnnd good luck. Despite having to haul a bucket of glue and a ladder while riding a bike, Antonio is one happy dude. Then, the worst of the worst. Bike stolen. The rest of the movie is basically delving into the seedy side of the stolen bicycle black markets of Paris and the filth and vermin that thrive there. It can be a bit...unnerving. Or just a bunch of bastards trying to survive like anyone else. But make no mistake. It is about survival. For Antonio, that means his family too.
This is one where you just need to watch and let it play out. Complete destruction of your family reduced to a single bike. Imagine that. What can you do? What would you do? Italian Peter Weller and his adoring young son Bruno, as they look for a thing that can’t be found. Not really. Not realistically. Shot well, and tells the increasingly desperate story economically and succinctly. And a perfect ending for the narrative that plays out. It’s an odd obsession. Yes, he needs his bike. But come Monday morning? Dude. A lot of people have a bike here. Can’t...maybe...ya just borrow one from a friend for a few days? Getting the rare job is the hard part, now you gets paid. Just keep a better eye out while posting bills next time. Live and learn.
