Marty

Rating: Not Rated

Movie Release Date: April 11, 1955

DVD Release Date: June 19, 2001

Plot 411: A neighborhood butcher and eldest son in an Italian family is constantly pestered with the question, "When will you get married?"

Review: This movie, starring Ernest Borgnine, flips the script on the regular old maid's tale. This time the main character is not a woman but a man who is past his expiration date per society's rules. Borgnine plays Marty, the eldest son in an Italian family who lives with his mother. The rest of his siblings are happily married off, but he's found it difficult to attract women. This has caused him great heartache and low self-esteem throughout the years, and he has conceded to being a bachelor his entire life. Borgnine is very likable and believable in this character, and the audience is sucked in by his caring nature. Most of the characters are self-absorbed and one dimensional, content to remain on their current path. Marty, on the other hand, desires more out of life but lacks the confidence to take the leap. Many of us live our lives in the same manner. We have big dreams but fail to pursue them. Despite a simple plot, this film is worth seeing as it teaches us that you don't have to be a superhero to achieve your dreams. An ordinary person with confidence in him/herself can do just as well.

Watch It: For a little bit of "rah-rah, go team" for your ego.

Skip It: If big names and big effects are your thing.

Trailer: