Ernest Borgnine is “Marty”

Marty (1955) is an American drama directed by Delbert Mann and starring Ernest Borgnine and Betsy Blair. Esther Minciotti, Augusta Ciolli, Karen Steele, Jerry Paris, and Joe Mantell round out the cast.

Marty (Borgnine) is an Italian-American butcher who lives in the Bronx with his mother (Minciotti). As a 34-year-old bachelor, Marty is constantly badgered by friends and family about his still being single. They even point out that all his siblings are married, some with children. Marty would like to get married but he’s been disappointed by his dwindling prospects.

One night, Marty meets Clara (Blair) a plain high school teacher who is crying because she was just dumped by her blind date. The two spend the evening together dancing, walking, and talking in a diner. Marty really enjoys being with Clara but his friends and family discourage the relationship, including his mother who fears she will be abandoned once Marty gets married.

Will Marty ignore the opinions of his friends and family and find happiness with Clara?

Betsy Blair and Ernest Borgnine

Marty trivia

• Rod Steiger, who created the role in the TV production of Marty turned down the role in the film because the producers wanted him to sign a multi-film contract.
• This director Delbert Mann’s first movie. For his efforts, he won the Academy Award for Best Director.
• The film was made in 16 days with an additional 3 days for reshoots.
• Nancy Marchand was set to repeat her television performance until Betsy Blair, with the help of her then husband, Gene Kelly, campaigned for the role.
• Made for only $343,000, Marty went on to make $3 million in the U.S., making it a box-office hit.

 

To watch the movie on YouTube, click on the link here.

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Discussion questions

1. Do you think Marty’s dating life has changed all that much in the 21^st century?
2. Did you find Marty a realistic portrayal of life in 1950s New York City with all its family and friendship dynamics?
3. What did you think of Ernest Borgnine’s portrayal? Betsy Blair’s?
4. Were there any supporting character performances that were especially good?