THE BICYCLE THIEF is cheered as a Masterpiece by many, many critics.  They talk about the socialist undertones, the exhibition of a stratafied Italian society, and one of the best Father/Son relationships EVER in films.  Well...watching Antonio search Rome for his ticket to gainful employment is interesting, the relationship between Antonio and Bruno is sweet and compelling, and the desperation is palpable.  However, I didn't see the film as much more than a man looking for his stolen bike.  It is like a serious, Italian version of PEE WEE'S BIG ADVENTURE.  Man loses bike.  Man wants bike.  Willing to go to great lengths to get bike.  End scene.