His social realist films persistently examine the struggles of working-class individuals stigmatized by society's illegitimacy and class prejudices.

His neorealist masterpieces, particularly 'Bicycle Thieves' and 'Umberto D.', explore the illegitimacy and marginalization of the poor in post-war society.

His improvisational character studies deeply investigate social exclusion, personal shame, and the illegitimacy imposed by class and circumstance.