Umberto D (1952)

Set in postwar Italy, an elderly pensioner (Carlo Battisti) struggles to make ends meet as his landlady (Lina Gennari) plans to evict him. His only "friend" is his devoted dog called Flike. Directed by Vittorio De Sica (BICYCLE THIEVES), this masterwork is as good as anything he's ever done. It's a beautiful neorealist film, simple in its execution and storytelling yet rich in its humanity. Sadly, the marginalization of the elderly (perhaps only Ozu's TOKYO STORY is as eloquent) and the poverty ridden hasn't changed much since 1952. Battisti's pensioner desperately trying to hold on to his dignity and pride amid the loneliness in an increasingly detached society. As homelessness continues to spread across the U.S. as inflation and living expenses climb causing many to lose their home, it's still remarkably relevant today. If its bleak ending doesn't crush you, there's something missing in your parts. Not surprisingly, it wasn't very popular in Italy but it was acclaimed internationally. With a lovely performance by Maria Pia Casilio as the young pregnant but unmarried maid.