[Jenson71]

I think those are two of the most prominent examples of two similar eras/styles of film that stressed realism -- Italian Neorealism and the French New Wave.

The Italian neorealists were pretty serious people, not entertainers, although The Bicycle Thief certainly can be seen as entertaining. I also feel it's better than 400 Blows, but 400 Blows is remarkable. Much better than Jules and Jim, imo.

I want to see more Italian neorealism. I think it's truly worthy of admiration. It really inspired a great deal, not really about what movies should look like, but what they should be saying.