Marty (1955)

Why Is Marty (1955) Rated Not Rated?

Making The Grades…

Overall: A-
While some negative behaviors and attitudes are portrayed in this film, the story does a wonderful job of showing what traits should be taken into account when looking for a meaningful relationship. Marty and Clara are easy characters for older teens and adults to relate to.

Violence: A-
Well-intentioned people nag man about his single status. Character accused of throwing a bottle of milk at another character. Obviously paranoid woman claims she is afraid of being stabbed while sleeping. Man confesses to thoughts of suicide. Married couple quarrel. Man talks about a murder mystery novel where a woman was shot in the stomach. Male character verbally agrees with negative treatment of women.

Sexual Content: B
Many instances where men brag about “picking-up” women, or discuss looking for women who will go out with them (sexual interest implied). Twice, men are portrayed looking at a presumably pornographic magazine. Main character refuses invitation to join a male friend who is taking some girls to a more private location. Man tries to kiss woman who pushes him away. Hug and lip-brushing kiss depicted. Married couple sleeps in twin beds. A character accuses collage girls of being one step away from the street. Male characters contemplate attending burlesque show.

Language: A-
Character refers to his mother as “my old lady”. Derogatory slang words used to describe women.

Alcohol / Drug Use: C+
Many scenes shot in bar and dance hall, with smoking and social drinking, including some depictions of drinking to excess. Main characters discuss drinking beer while watching TV. Man purchases cigarettes from vending machine. Happy man says he is behaving as if he were drunk. One main and several incidental characters smoke.