A retired Polish American Ford factory worker and Korean war veteran, Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood) finds himself situated in a community surrounded by Asian immigrants as well as gang violence. Hmong family the Vang Lors move next door, who Walt is initially hostile towards them. Widowed at the film's beginning, Walt's relationship songs Mitch (Brian Haley) and Steve (Brian Howe) are fraught, his songs mostly being interested in materialistic value, though not sharing Walt's racist viewpoints. However, Walt takes Thao Vang Lor (Bee Vang) under his wing, whose life is threatened by gang culture.
Throughout the movie, Walt's racist viewpoints gradually change, his viewpoints being defused by witty responses from Sue Vang Lor (Ahney Her). The fact that the film tackles the issue of racism bluntly, but without descending into parody, is refreshing, especially in light of political correctness. Eastwood's age is also accomodated for, particularly where Walt trips whilst stopping the 1972 Ford Gran Torino from being stolen, as well as his deteriorating health. In this respect, the film shares similarities with latter day Eastwood movies like 'Heartbreak Ridge' (1986), 'Unforgiven' (1992), and 'In the Line of Fire' (1993). Critics have noted similarities with 'Dirty Harry' (1971), which are particularly prevalent during Walt's exchanges with Father Janovich (Christopher Carley), who urges Walt to go to confession due to a promise he made with Walt's deceased wife.
Thao is a shy, good person, though is open to a wayward path due to the overt influence of his gangster cousin Fong "Spider" (Doua Moua). Walt takes Thao under his wing, teaching him instruction as well as how to interact with others, and develops a relationship with the teen that he never had with his own sons. Walt's Gran Torino almost becomes a symbol of the American dream, the life those within the movie hope to achieve, becoming the object of desire for several. Before Thao can achieve the American dream, however, his cousin's influence must be stopped, something which Walt opts to tackle, paving the way for a bittersweet, unexpected conclusion. The movie's title song "Gran Torino" plays at the film's ending / credits, a number musically penned by Clint Eastwood, Jamie Cullum, Kyle Eastwood, and Michael Stevens, with Cullum penning the lyrics. A sombre, emotionally affecting track which sees Clint handle vocals, this certainly evokes the conclusion of 'Honkytonk Man' (1982).
Moviegoers who enjoy Eastwood's in front of the camera and behind the camera will certainly enjoy 'Gran Torino', which features several elements from Eastwood's past movies. With a dramatic, gripping story, many can likely identify with the neighbourhood troubles highlighted throughout the film. Let's hope this isn't Eastwood's last acting role.
Reviewed by Robert Gray
