Bartali's Bicycle

'Bartali's Bicycle' is an Italian animated film based on the true story of Gino Bartali, an Italian cyclist renowned for his humanitarian work during the Second World War. During the war, Bartali used his bicycle to transport forged documents, helping numerous Jewish families to escape and putting his own life at risk. He also enjoyed an excellent reputation as an athlete, winning the Tour de France twice: in 1938 and 1948. 

'Bartali's Bicycle' will have two time frames. First, Italy in the 1940s, where Gino Bartali secretly opposed the Italian fascist regime with his missions. The other setting will be contemporary Jerusalem, where two children, David and Ibrahim, one Jewish and the other Arab, find a common bond in cycling, the seed of a friendship that will unite them beyond their cultural differences. These plots are linked by Bartali's story, which bridges the gap between different generations. Almost without knowing it, he conveyed an important message about memory, courage, coexistence and the possibility of understanding, even in the most complex and conflictive moments. 

Enrico Paolantonio directs this animated feature film, with a screenplay by Marco Beretta and Israel Cesare Moscati.