Likeable, heartwarming love story

The 'Marty' of the title is a lonely, 34-year-old butcher living in the Bronx with his overbearing Italian mother, sad at his bad luck in love and feeling that he has been left on the shelf. Fast-forward 50 years to the present day, and he would probably be out there speed-dating or using internet dating sites, but in 1950s New York his options were limited to trying to get someone to dance with him at the Starlight Ballroom. One evening in a chance meeting, he encounters his female equivalent, Clara, a 29-year-old teacher who, on account of her plain looks, has thrown herself into her career for fear of not getting a husband and ending up with nothing. The initial awkward meeting sets up both characters to open up to each other, admitting their fears, hopes, and growing feelings for each other in a timeless way that is still highly watchable and relevant to today.

The performances by the lead characters are excellent, particularly Ernest Borgnine who brings sensitivity and likeability to the title role. I'm not usually particularly into old films but I really enjoyed this one - a brief glimpse into the dating scene of yesteryear, some great performances, and a love story - perfect sunday viewing! My one criticism is that the film seems to end rather abruptly, but perhaps this is designed to leave you thinking rather than following through what would have been the obvious, predictable outcome.