The Bicycle Thief

E:
There's a certain element of honesty in foreign films that is often lacking in domestic cinema. The sheer fact that the word "cinema" isn't often paired with anything remotely American is evidence enough. This moobie is not simply honest, it's unafraid to be honest about the gray areas of morality that only cable television seems to thrive on these days.
It's a small story about an unemployed man in financially stricken times. Afforded an opportunity to take a small government job, he revels in the chance to once again provide for his family. On the first day, his bicycle - his sole means of transportation and a requirement for his employment - gets stolen. Angry, frustrated and determined to keep his job, he enlists the help of his young son to find it.
Make no mistake, this isn't a feel good moobie. It's post-war Italian cinema. And for anyone who wants to take moobie-watching seriously, it's essential viewing.