Gran Torino (2008)

“Take these three items, some WD-40, a vise grip, and a roll of duct tape. Any man worth his salt can fix almost any problem with this stuff alone.” – Walt Kowalski

Number of Times Seen – 2 (17 Dec 2008 and 18 Nov 2013)

Brief Synopsis – A recently widowed racist Korean war veteran learns about cross cultural friendship and honor when he starts to get to know his Asian neighbors.

My Take on it – When I first saw this, the only thing I knew about it was that Clint Eastwood was starring and directing.

This story is so well played out and over the course of it, we can truly believe that a racist war veteran haunted by days and nights 50 years past can find a way to change his thoughts and attitudes in order to help out his new neighbors who are Hmong (from Southeast Asia.)

This movie isn’t fast paced but a lot goes on and you need to really pay attention to get it all in.

Eastwood’s performance here is truly memorable and this is definitely one of his best roles in all his years in the industry.

None of the other actors are known but Eastwood was able to get them to act in ways that make this movie seem so realistic; truly showing how low class neighborhoods have changed in recent years to a point where the residents still live in fear of their new neighbors.

Bottom Line – Excellent and moving movie.  One of Eastwood’s best performances both behind and in front of the camera. Highly recommended!

Rating – Oscar Worthy