The Italian Cultural Institute Sydney is proud to collaborate with the Children’s International Film Festival (CHIFF), returning to cinemas from 7 June to 20 July 2025 with a vibrant line-up of 19 hand-picked films for children aged 3+ and their families.
As part of this collaboration, the Institute is delighted to co-present Bartali’s Bicycle, directed by Enrico Paolantonio – a moving film that unfolds across two different time periods, offering a powerful reflection on friendship, moral courage, and the importance of overcoming prejudice.
The story draws inspiration from Gino Bartali, the legendary Italian cyclist who won the Tour de France twice and the Giro d’Italia three times. During World War II, Bartali secretly used his fame and cycling talent to aid the Italian Resistance, acting as a courier and sheltering a Jewish family in his home.
In the film’s parallel storyline set in modern-day Jerusalem, two rival teenage cyclists must confront the deep divisions in their society. Their unlikely friendship ultimately leads them to become teammates, embodying the film’s core themes of reconciliation and respect.
Aimed at older children, Bartali’s Bicycle is a touching and beautifully crafted film that celebrates the enduring power of sports and shared humanity.
Festival Accolades:
Giffoni Film Festival 2024 – Winner, Lete Special Award
SCHLiNGEL International Film Festival 2024 – Official Selection
In Sydney, CHIFF screenings will take place at Ritz Cinemas in Randwick. In Melbourne, the Festival will be held at Classic Cinemas (Elsternwick), Lido Cinemas (Hawthorn), and Cameo Cinemas (Belgrave).
For more information and tickets, visit: www.chiff.com.au