In post-war Italy, Antonio Ricci is a humble man who, after many months of job searching, finally lands a job that could change his luck: a position that requires the use of a bicycle. With the hope of a better future, Antonio sells everything he has to buy a bicycle. However, his joy is cut short when, on his first day of work, someone steals his prized bicycle. Desperate and unemployed, Antonio embarks on a harrowing search through the streets of Rome, accompanied by his young son Bruno, who tries to understand the gravity of the situation while following in his father's shadow.
As the two navigate the city, they confront the harsh reality of poverty and the struggle for survival. The bond between father and son deepens as they experience moments of despair, hope, and unconditional love. Each encounter reveals the struggles of a society marked by misery and desolation, testing human dignity at every turn.
The film is a poignant portrait of hopelessness and the daily struggle, showing how something as simple as a bicycle can symbolize fragile dreams and the fight for a better future. The emotional connection between Antonio and Bruno is the heart of the story, highlighting familial resilience in difficult times. Ultimately, it is a powerful reflection on hope and love in a world that seems to have forgotten them.