Films About Cyclists: A Curated Collection

Description: Although not about professional cycling, this Italian neorealist film explores the importance of a bicycle in post-war Italy, where a man's livelihood depends on his bike, which gets stolen, leading to a poignant journey through Rome.

Fact: The film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."

Description: This coming-of-age comedy-drama follows a group of friends in Bloomington, Indiana, who dream of becoming professional cyclists. Their journey culminates in a race against Italian university students, showcasing the spirit of cycling and youthful ambition.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life event called the Little 500, an annual bicycle race at Indiana University. It also won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: Two brothers participate in a grueling bicycle race across the Rocky Mountains, dealing with personal issues and sibling rivalry along the way. The film captures the intensity of competitive cycling and the bond of family.

Fact: The film features real-life cycling champion Davis Phinney, who plays one of the racers.

Description: Kevin Bacon stars as a former stockbroker turned bicycle messenger in this action drama. While not strictly about cycling, it showcases the fast-paced life of bike messengers in New York City.

Fact: The film was one of the first to feature a prominent role for a bicycle messenger, highlighting the subculture of urban cycling.

Description: This animated film features a grandmother and her dog who embark on a quest to rescue her grandson, a cyclist kidnapped during the Tour de France. It's a whimsical, visually stunning tribute to cycling and French culture.

Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.

Description: While primarily about a motorcycle, this film captures the spirit of speed and personal challenge, much like cycling, as it follows Burt Munro's quest to set a land speed record.

Fact: Anthony Hopkins delivers a compelling performance as Burt Munro, and the film was shot in New Zealand, where Munro's story originated.

Description: This film tells the true story of Graeme Obree, a Scottish cyclist who built his own bike from scrap parts and broke the world hour record. It's a tale of determination, innovation, and overcoming personal and professional challenges.

Fact: The film was shot in Scotland, where much of Obree's real-life story took place. The bike he built, known as "Old Faithful," is now in the National Museum of Scotland.

Description: A fast-paced action thriller where a bike messenger in New York City gets caught in a high-stakes chase involving a corrupt cop and a mysterious package.

Fact: The film features real-life bike messengers and was shot on location in New York, capturing the city's cycling culture.

Description: A documentary by Alex Gibney that delves into the life and career of Lance Armstrong, focusing on his rise, fall, and the doping scandal that rocked the cycling world.

Fact: The film includes interviews with Armstrong himself, providing a firsthand account of his experiences.

Description: This documentary follows the journey of a bicycle from its creation in a factory in China to its use by various people around the world, illustrating the global impact of cycling.

Fact: The film was shot in multiple countries, showcasing the universal appeal of bicycles.