Movie review: MARTY (1955) - Oscar winner for Best Picture

Clint Davis from The Stream Police Podcast takes a detailed look at 1955's MARTY, which won the Oscar for Best Picture, as well as the Palme D'or at Cannes. At just 90 minutes in length, starring a no-name cast and made by a first-time director, this film was quite unique as a Best Picture winner.
Stars: Ernest Borgnine & Betsy Blair
Writer: Paddy Chevesky
Director: Delbert Mann
Clips courtesy of MGM and The Criterion Collection.

[@fanofallmetal]

I first heard about Marty when it was used in as a game show answer in the 1994 movie Quiz Show. The movie title stuck in my head. I finally watched Marty for the first time in 2018 and have seen it several times since. An absolute masterpiece.

[@OverdueReview]

Quiz Show is a good one!

[@sonjar1853]

Marty, in its minimalism, is work of art. I see it as a character study letting the viewer in on this man’s world. I don’t see Marty as unhappy, but as unfulfilled. It is my favorite movie of all others. Clint, your review was stellar! Thank you. You analyzed this movie with insight, and intelligence. I watch Marty once a year, and always see something, as nuanced as it may be, new. Such a brilliant movie. Thank you again for an absolutely excellent review.

[@29subhra]

This movie is a masterpiece ❤️

[@danadesimone9322]

As an Italian American who would have been the baby's age, This sadly is how many Italian Americans 9f that time acted, talked etc..one of the best movies ever made..andanice review

[@lostlatinlover]

"Marty" premiered the year I was born, 1955. I distinctly remember seeing it as a pre-teen with my mom. Even then I could relate to Marty; knowing the rejection and the loneliness. The line "I don't know what women want. I just know I ain't got it" struck a nerve. I've seen this lovely movie perhaps a dozen times over the years. It truly is an overlooked gem.

[@kevinbutler1955NYC]

I was born in 1955..Dan..I didn't see this movie..until I was in my teens and I saw it on tv(Until then? I only knew of Mr.Borgnine's work on the tv series"McHale's Navy")..he was wonderful in this movie version of Mr.Chevesky's tv play)..and he truly deserved the Oscar for Best Actor.

[@marilynleveque2497]

Yes, Marty realizes his friend Angie needs to grow up, and free himself from his boundaries. That seeking out so called “fun” on nights out is not the answer to their lives. Meeting true and honest people is the answer. Marty needed to show this growth. Closing the telephone booth door on Angie’s life is brilliant ending to the Oscar Winner!

[@lostlatinlover]

If you will permit me another comment. My son who is now 34 took a film class in college in 2007. "Marty" and "High Noon" were among the first films discussed in his class. He was so stunned by what I saw on the screen... Ergo his comment to his father (me) was "You know Dad they made some pretty good movies in the 'old days!' "

[@marilynleveque2497]

“Marty”, my favorite movie of all time! Also, love “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn”. Excellent Review. Timeless and how love should be today.

[@mfcavo]

I have been binging YT videos on this classic lately. Yours is one of the best. Great blend of clips and insightful commentary and knowledge. Thanks.

[@OverdueReview]

Thanks a lot for the kind words! It's a masterpiece.

[@JaketheJust]

The scene “I got hurt enough. I don’t want to get hurt no more,”is a once in a blue moon in films that every guy in todays online dating app world can relate to. “I’ve been ghosted enough. I don’t want to be ghost anymore.”

[@vaibhavbhosle5643]

Watched this movie today! A masterpiece by Paddy Chayefsky.

[@sarcasticsugar4466]

I watched this movie years ago, as part of my "watch every movie that won Best Picture" hobby. It's still one of my favorite movies of all time, one of my favorite BP winners ever, and a movie I feel that is more relevant to today's world, and culture, and people than ever before. Great review, I wish more people remembered this little gem.

[@OverdueReview]

Honestly I think winning BP is the ONLY reason it still gets discovered at all these days!

[@sarcasticsugar4466]

@@OverdueReview Very sad. it's an understated, raw, and absolutely true-to-life masterpiece. So many films lack the simplicity, poignancy, and incredible authenticity that this one has. You don't need fancy CGI or a complex plot to make a great film. Todays filmmakers could learn a thing or two from Marty.

[@girlfromthebronxbywayofelb7288]

Thank you for recognizing this amazing movie! Marty has been one of my favorite movies for years!

[@OverdueReview]

You've got great taste!

[@Tyanwl1]

Man, you are a great reviewer! I taught film for 10 years and you touched on so many essentials for film review. Look forward to hearing more from you!

[@OverdueReview]

Thanks a lot! It's an artform I love and really respect.

[@sifu64]

There's even more nuances, such as its portrayal of first-generation Italian Americans. The dynamic is something I clearly remember as a little kid in the late 60s- early 1970s. That generation was on its way out as their children were Amercanized . My grandparents and they're friends.

[@OverdueReview]

Great observation!

[@sifu64]

​@OverdueReview thanks..just saw someone else on the thread made a similar observation. Paddy Chayefsky's other masterpiece is Network (1976). I re-watched it several times and it's on target prophecy is unnerving.

[@j.d.thompson3505]

Found it on eBay and watched it last night. Super powerful.

[@burlingtonpark4136]

Love your passion!Thanks for reviewing this great movie in so much depth and clarity....the writing is so amazing and all the actors,in both the teleplay and the later movie ,act their hearts out.

[@idx1941]

Great review! Such a great movie...l can't call it a classic because it doesn't have any name recognition...but it's a movie that should've become a classic! I love the film and revisit it yearly. Such powerful performances.

[@freddiehips4019]

This was a very enjoyable 11 minutes. I have no idea what you do for a job but you are exceptionally good at this. I saw the film Marty once and it must have been 30 years ago. I've never forgotten it. I watched 12 Angry Men the other day for about the 4th time and it always reminds me that I should return to Marty. The girl in Marty I find very pretty and lovely. And if I were Marty I'd be after a second date. ( no spoilers ) Thanks for this video. I have subscribed. Greetings from the UK.

[@OverdueReview]

Thanks so much, friend! I second everything you said about the movie.

[@user-qi9gf7zl8p]

Thank you for this great review. I often tell my friends about this film.

[@masteryoda498]

Marty was a classic, a very realistic and honest depiction of what a physically unattractive man has to endure with regards to finding a vvoman. Great reaction video, thumbs up from me.

[@lrigdrenlrigdren2147]

You're right. Women experience it too. I've had relatively few boyfriends in my life, and all but one openly called me fat and ugly (which are true things, but still ...) Clara has to endure rejection too, but the lens is more clearly on Marty. I think the message is hopeful for them both, though. Yes, there are lots of immature shallow folks in the world (both genders, then and now), but there are treasures too. Both Marty and Clara have to be brave, keep stepping out in faith, keep making space for a kind and loving person to come along.

[@theresawhetstone9028]

Fabulous review!

[@marianparoo1544]

Saw bits and pieces of it through the years, but gonna see all of it tonight! Can't wait!

[@kevinbutler1955NYC]

Character actor..Frank Sutton(who would go onto greater tv fame as"Sgt.Vice Carter"on "Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C. Ten years later)also appears in this movie.

[@carolyneverett762]

Beautiful movie. Betsy Blair was married to Gene Kelly.

[@oldmoviesinbwwithsubtitles3501]

Love the film. Great Review

[@shiwakuseven5859]

Marty is an outstanding movie! If you haven't seen it yet, you should.

[@patrickball2445]

One of my favorites movies

[@davidm5819]

First time watching Marty movie today! Loved it and your review is excellent. Great movie!

[@OverdueReview]

Glad you found it!

[@bonniehoke-scedrov4906]

I love Marty. Terrific movie! This is my first time enjoying your KZbin channel. Great content! Looking forward to hearing more from you! Your video was so informative. Thank you so much!

[@denisrodrigues1455]

Congratulations for this wonderful review about this movie. In a special way, Marty touches deeply our hearts and minds, showing emotions and experiences felt for a lot of people. I think this point is one of the reasons that made this movie narrative so unforgettable. Thank you, Clint!

[@briandunn6157]

I love Marty !!

[@BK-uf6qr]

Nice job on your review! I guess I’m reviewing a review.

[@CVilla-ny1er]

I loved this movie since the first time I watched it , I think is the best movie ever made but sadly almost nobody seems to know this movie

[@OverdueReview]

It has remained a hidden gem. It's because nobody sexy is in it and it's pretty grim.

[@kazehaya2849]

Thank you for this great review dear ❤️

[@SeldimSeen1]

Great message from this moving. You make your own happiness. Thanks for reviewing this classic.

[@GrumpyYank26]

Thank you for this. Well done.

[@user-gw2ow1dw6j]

This is a great review! I read the play in high school really enjoy the movie. It is filled with so much emotion and is so simple yet effective- not your typical hollywood movie. I love to watch the videos of Earnest Borgnine talking about winning the oscar, so unlikely, and up against Spencer Tracy (who he had just worked with), James Cagney, James Dean- a great win for him

[@saifonlawrence2044]

Marty is one far out,groovy Pic man...I really dug it baby !!!

[@johnthompson4067]

A good review of a fine movie. However, the abrupt ending has always bothered me. It's ambiguous; after all, Clara was upset and crying because Marty had broken his promise to phone her in the afternoon; would she have still agreed to see him after that? It leaves audiences hanging. As an aside, Ernest and Betsy, according to director Delbert Mann, got along very well during the filming.

[@largebiff1743]

Who would have thought that the same guy that played Marty would end up playing Quinton McHale.

[@OverdueReview]

Or Ted Denslow!

[@Doowopsid]

Great review and I agree with you 100%

[@cherylanderson9126]

You did a fabulous review of Marty. I have seen it twice but am aware of things now only because of your viewpoint. Thank you. Keep up the great work. You are skilled.

[@DaMovieGURU]

What you failed to mention is that Rod Steiger turned down reprising his role for the film because he didnt want to shackled to the movie studios for years

[@deantheodosiou2886]

Great story. Great movie. Great review.

[@frankcio5803]

Very well reviewed!

[@kidprov1356]

Clint, excellent review. I couldn't agree more. It's my favorite movie of all time. In one of the last times I watched it, I became aware of a point about the movie that disturbed me. At the end, Marty admonishes Angie about being single. For me, that is a 180 degree character change. Marty had been so maligned for his marital status that, as his character had been developed, you would think he would have shown more empathy towards Angie. To me, it rings hollow for his character. I wonder why the author chose that as an ending...thoughts?

[@clips001ify]

Maybe in that burst of confidence and clear-sightedness, Marty gives his friend an abrupt reminder, a rebuff....not so much for me with cruelty but as a wake-up call. Also, Chayefsky uses repetition in the script...adds a certain musicality and memorability to the script and so he ends with the lines which we heard in the early scenes when community members scolded or chided Marty for still being single. Just my thoughts.

[@OverdueReview]

@carol debra l I think you nailed it. Also Marty is not a perfect person and is not a great thinker so I think it works. Not what I'd want to hear him do but sometimes people let you down a little.

[@marilynleveque2497]

Yes, Marty realizes his friend Angie needs to grow up, and free himself from his boundaries. That seeking out so called “fun” on nights out is not the answer to their lives. Meeting true people is the answer. Marty needed to show this growth. Closing the telephone booth door on Angie’s life is brilliant ending to the Oscar Winner!

[@marilynleveque2497]

Yes, Marty realizes his friend Angie needs to grow up, and free himself from his boundaries. That seeking out so called “fun” on nights out is not the answer to their lives. Meeting true people is the answer. Marty needed to show this growth. Closing the telephone booth door on Angie’s life is brilliant ending to the Oscar Winner!

[@timcarr6401]

Wonderfully perceptive review.

[@annamariacurrivan6142]

Absolutely, a great movie……a study of humanity and of a generation…..have watched it a hundred times.

[@kevinbutler1955NYC]

The part of "Marty" for the movie version was originally ment for the performer..who played the part in the 1953 tv play..Rod Steiger..but..he turned it down..and Mr.Borgnine..got the part.

[@rabrab3]

Awesome movie and great performances. I am Marty and feel the scenes all too much. This is such a go to film when wanting something to watch. ......Great review!!

[@shirleybalinski4535]

Absolutely a great movie..a real must see. This film is everyone..at some point in their life. Ernest is Marty. It is pretty hard to seperate the two. This is not acting..reality & film acting meshed into one great 90 minutes of life.

[@laurenceschwartz8606]

I champion your attitude and insightful analysis.

[@rkomgm3932]

I can relate to Marty :(

[@JoeyAdawi]

Just watched Marty, thanks for the enjoyable review.

[@casalagrande]

Amazing breakdown. A+

[@meganlutz7150]

Great review

[@craigrasmussen3559]

This is a very good review.

[@ricktimmons458]

GREAT FILM.

[@furiousangel6508]

Phenomenal review. Thank you

[@OverdueReview]

🙏

[@alanbash2921]

Pure Gold .

[@Tannyk1]

Those were the days when classics like these were made.

[@arnoldarnoldr5114]

Great job!

[@rileyfox4001]

Well done!

[@rosaestrada41]

I haven’t seen it on you tube. It will be nice to see the full movie

[@lordbaldohomero]

You should date Jerome weiselberry she made a very similar review about this movie

[@goodgood9955]

I liked it. Im going to watch it with my wife.

[@lxalex3598]

..unheralded, unsung but still a classic ... all the same ...

[@larellecarver5254]

Wonderful movie

[@kevinbutler1955NYC]

I love this movie..because..it deals with real people and with real life situations.

[@AaronToThe]

Would love to hear your thoughts on/review of the film, The Third Man. One of my personal favorites, and a film that doesn’t get much appreciation.

[@colinmaharaj]

21, the quiz show (1998) got me here

[@he-wq7go]

Parasite becomes the third film to win both Palm d'or AND Best Picture

[@OverdueReview]

True and very deserving. Phenomenal movie too.

[@Rodolfo17987]

People: Marty you need to get a woman or you'll die alone. Marty: Hey I found the love of my life. People: No Marty, waht about us?

[@brandonneely9982]

I guess its easy to play your real self, for an actor I mean. I would totaly foul it up. He was-is a great actor. Fatso in FHT Eternity was played so well by him, I actually started disliking him. Great review BTW, I'm a new subscriber to your channel.

[@saleemahfareed4790]

I like the movie and so negative too

[@martinbench3657]

I think Ange was scared , by Monday afternoon he was probably happy for his best friend ..... i hope

[@OverdueReview]

It's a nice thought but he just seemed like he had some darkness inside him. Like a grown up Peter Pan.

[@martinbench3657]

@@OverdueReview Oh yes , i get the darkness , i just hope for the best friend

[@martinbench3657]

The other friends i have no hope for

[@martinbench3657]

I watched again , Ange is an ass but i still have hope for him the next day or Marty wouldn't like him

[@martinamorgan1119]

A good movie,,,

[@GoodmanMIke59]

You forgot that the mom and aunt and one Goomba friend reprised roles. .... and while it's not PC to say, Rod Steiger being Jewish would never have been able to pull off this role. My father grew up on the Grand Concourse in the Bronx. Must have been a heck of a time in the 1950s. "A Bronx Tale" (DeNiro) kind of brings it to Modern Times. And find the uncut version with the Clara / parent bedroom, bus stop scene. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4Kqqn6EituEipI

[@GoodmanMIke59]

@@frankcio5803 I have to admit you're right. Maybe it was just his bone structure. Maybe it was his having known "The Pawnbroker." I'm embarrassed. ... but he sure as hell wasn't Italian. Let's just agree that he was brilliant.

[@tomhaskett5161]

The studios did not want Betsy Blair in this film, as she was considered a 'lefty' and was under a cloud with the House Unamerican Committee. The yielded when Gene Kelly put pressure on them. Cancel culture is not new!

[@OverdueReview]

Another reason to love her! "Cancel culture" was actually real back then, unlike today. Jules Dassin had to leave the country for the rest of his career while guys who are "canceled" today still tour arenas and get lucrative paydays in America.

[@rosemariemartin1361]

I didn't find her all that plain. Kinda harsh calling her a dog. Geez

[@pratikking2272]

She looked like an actress. If that is a dog than an average woman is a rat.

[@BrandonKratz-ey5qd]

Marty could suck the chrome off a bumper

[@robertaquilina3848]

what a classic dont make films like this today

[@nap871]

Marty needs some work on his approach.