The Bicycle

The Bicycle is a drama about Susanne, a single mother living in East Germany. After leaving her job, she faces financial hardship and attempts to secure money through a small insurance fraud. She eventually meets a man named Thomas, who offers her employment and assistance with the fraud, leading Susanne to question the relationship and her own desire for independence. Because the film presented a frank view of a citizen who did not fit the socialist ideal, East German authorities prevented it from being shown outside the country.

Directed by Evelyn Schmidt, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Ernst Wenig, the film was produced by DEFA. The cast features Heidemarie Schneider in the lead role of Susanne Becker, alongside Roman Kaminski as Thomas and Heidrun Bartholomäus as Mary. Other appearing actors include Hilmar Baumann, Gisela Bestehorn, and Gertrud Brendler. Released on July 22, 1982, the movie has a runtime of 88 minutes. Audience reception has been moderate, with a rating of 6.3/10 on IMDb based on 87 votes.