The Kid with a Bike (Le Gamin au vélo) tells the story of Cyril, a child who is struggling with the realization that his father does not want to take care of him. Directed by Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, the film focuses more on the young protagonist rather than a storyline. Cyril experiences some difficult times but the film progresses based on how he reacts to the events rather than the events itself. At first he is angry, in a state of denial about his father’s abandonment, later struggling to fit in and find a father figure and later accepting his situation and trying to make the best of it.
Cyril lives in foster care and his bicycle comes to symbolize the freedom and enjoyment that he previously shared with his father. When he runs away from the centre where he lives early in the film, he meets Samantha, who begins helping him. She locates his bike and returns it to him, begins looking after him on weekends and considers adopting him. The two grow closer although it is not easy; both must give a little in order for the relationship to work. It turns out that both offer something that the other needs but they do not immediately realize this.
The film chronicles Cyril’s search for someone to look up to. First, his father proves to be an utter failure in that regard but Samantha gradually gains his trust. As important as the moments between the two characters are the scenes when Cyril rides his bike through town, channeling his negative emotions into enjoyment and relief. Long camera shots focus on the characters and how they react to each situation.
Cyril seems to be making progress when he is approached by Wes, a local drug dealer, who hopes to engender his loyalty by providing the emotional support Cyril sorely lacks. As he grows up during the film, Cyril must learn how to make good choices and live with them. He briefly strays from the path but when a similar situation occurs at the conclusion of the film, Cyril makes the right choices. ***½