Muerte de un ciclista

Beginning with the eponymous death of a cyclist in a hit-and-run accident, an adulterous couple flee the scene for fear of losing their social standing were their affair to be revealed. María Jose and Juan, however, struggle to escape the consequences despite their best efforts, with much anxiety and soul-searching on Juan’s part at least. As a wealthy socialite, María Jose is vehemently determined to hold onto her power and privilege, whatever the cost.

This social realist film is a classic of Spanish cinema, and the film for which Juan Antonio Bardem is best known. It won the film critics’ FIPRESCI Award at the 1955 Cannes Film Festival and is a passionate critique of the upper classes under Franco.

This screening will be introduced by Andy Willis, University of Salford.