Gran Torino

Walt Kowalski, an iron-willed veteran living in a changing world, who is forced by his immigrant neighbours to confront his own long-held prejudices. The people he once called his neighbours have all moved or passed away, replaced by Hmong immigrants, from Southeast Asia, he despises. Resentful of virtually everything and everyone he sees, Walt is just waiting out the rest of his life, until the night his teenage neighbour Thao tries to steal his prized ‘72 Gran Torino, under pressure from Hmong gang-bangers. But Walt stands in the way of both the heist and the gang, making him the reluctant hero of the neighbourhood-especially to Thao’s mother and older sister, Sue, who insist that Thao work for Walt as a way to make amends. Though he initially wants nothing to do with these people, Walt eventually gives in and puts the boy to work, setting into motion an unlikely friendship that will change both their lives.

 

 

The talk of the town is that this will be the last we will see Clint Eastwood on the big screen. This brings mixed emotions as I feel if it is true it will be a shame, he is a legend who continually strives to set the standard higher with every performance. If this is to be the walk into the sunset for the last American cowboy, he has gone out all guns blazing, Rawhide!

Eastwood brings every hard bastard character he has ever controlled into this performance, then adds aches and pains a man of his age should have. He did make one mistake, but I think we can forgive him one, I have written him a note below* which will explain it.

In a time when we are told to kick racism out, it seams to be ever prominent in films. This is no exception, luckily I think almost every race and creed is attacked so it is not really singling any one out. Everyone knows an older person who says the inappropriate thing occasionally.

Like a time lapse film of a flower opening, the journey of this film shows the tolerance and impact of immigration into North America. From heavy set apartheid to the multicultural continent it is now this film through one mans eyes exemplifies this change in culture and attitude towards a new fellow neighbour.

A classic timeless film, which is surprisingly funny at times, and will keep you intrigued, captivated, and…. feeling lucky, punk.

*Dear Mr. Eastwood,
I really enjoyed this movie, and want to thank you for making it. However, you have managed many years and countless films without singing over the titles (we’ll let you off Paint Your Wagon, that wasn’t you’re fault), why did you do it? If you do decide to make another film, please consider a different vocalist, Paul Anka could be a good Choice.

Regards

Alex

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