As classic as this film is, I am surprised that no one has started a discussion on it as of yet. I've known about this movie for some time, I've always been a fan of Mr. Borgnine, and I finally got around to watching "Marty" last night:

A short, simple story of a man (Borgnine as Marty) who thinks that he is sadly past the marrying age. He eventually meets Clara (Betsy Blair), who is equally at the point of almost giving up on love. After an extended, awkward, yet tender encounter, they finally decide that each is The One. And that's about it. Enjoyable, non-pretentious, not flashy, but effective storytelling.

Captures the anxiety inherent among those who are very shy about approaching someone.

I thought this film was unique in selecting its two romantic leads-- Borgnine was never an attractive actor, and his love interest Betsy Blair was also rather plain . . . though I must say, her eyes were luminous, and she possessed a most enamoring voice exuding femininity. Also unlike most Hollywood casting choices in these types of movies, she was about the same age as the older male lead, and not much, much younger (Borgnine was around 38 at the time this movie was made, Blair, 32). In many Hollywood romantic stories, the actress would've been anywhere from 19 to 25.

In closing, a touching, yet not overly-saccharine film about the insecurities and yearnings surrounding the pursuit of love.