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Actor/Director Clint Eastwood (Forgiveness (1992) and Million Dollar Baby (2004) plus many more) gives an outstanding performance and once again proves his directing skills in this movie about an old Korean War Veteran who is full of hate toward everyone in his life. Following the death of his wife, Walt Kowalski (Eastwood) is alone and full of disgust for everyone in his life, especially those whom he feels have taken over his neighborhood. He remembers back on days gone by when he knew everyone around him. Now he looks around and sees only foreigners who have taken over his life. Following a number of incidents, one involving his neighbor, a Hmong teenage boy, and his Gran Torino, Walt (Eastwood) embarks on a journey of self discovery, he is befriended by the boys sister and Walt discovers there is more to life than hate and bitterness. The story flows from the beginning as we get to know the characters and leads to a surprisingly touching ending where Walt (Eastwood) shows his true spirit. This movie deals with intolerance, racism and ignorance of others and shows that even the most hate filled individual can be won over with love and kindness. I recommend that you watch this movie and perhaps you will walk away with a different view of life. Rated 5 of 5 stars for a movie that should be seen by everyone and will be enjoyed by all who see it.Read full review
This is definitely one unforgettable film with an unforgettable performance by Clint Eastwood as both Actor and Director. At 78, he proves age has not withered his talents, or taken the luster from a marvelous career. The buzz is that he may receive an Oscar nomination for this simple but character driven story. Clint, as Walt Kowalski, is a Korean War Vet, retired Auto worker, who has lost his wife. All he has left his his beer, his dog, his gun, and his negative racist attitudes. Things are at a boiling point as Hmong immigrants move into Clint's blue collar neighborhood, and things spill over when Eastwood's neighbor, Thao, (Bee Vang) (encouraged and harassed by neighborhood thugs) attempts to steal Eastwood's mint condition '72 Ford Torino. Eastwood, ever the scowling curmudgeon accepts Thao's offer to make amends. He and his sister Sue (Anney Her), soon become a part of Kowalski's (Eastwoods) life. Some of the sharpest moments are when Eastwood's character confronts harassing neighborhood thugs in typical, snarling Dirty Harry mode; in that moment, the magic returns and Eastwood's performance is as strong as anything in his past. This is the Eastwood, as we want to see him, and if this is his last performance (as he has mentioned it might be), this is definitely Eastwood, the actor we want to remember. Definitely a triumph. He's the man.Read full review
This is an outstanding movie, brought to us by a legend of the industry. This movie has it all: solid acting, great characters, cinematography, pace, and plot. This movie will make you think and feel. Eastwood is simply great in the tailor-made role of Walt Kowalski. Like any great actor, he shows you all the dimensions of his character. At first, you think he's just a cranky old man. Then, his bigotry is front and center. Little by little, you begin to understand him and why he is the way he is. Before you know it, you are identifying with, and sympathizing with, a guy who needs love more than contempt. Of course, he does find his redemption, through the most unilkely of people. That Clint Eastwood is great in this movie should come as no surprise. The real surprise comes via two completely inexperienced actors, Ahney Her as Sue, and Bee Vang as Thao. These two most unwelcome next door neighbors help Walt find his redemption, and give him the love and respect he gets from no one else. Sharing the screen with Eastwood is no small task for any actor, no matter how experienced they might be. These two rose to the occasion. The details is this film are just perfect. The casting is excellent, from top to bottom. Eastwood's son, daughter-in-law, and grandaughter are played to perfection by Brian Haley, Geraldine Hughes, and Dreama Walker. They are self-absorbed and clueless as to the needs of Walt. Walker is the teenager you love to hate, especially when she is lusting after Walt's prize Gran Torino in anticipation of his ultimate death. Haley and Hughes' good scene was when they showed up to Walt's house with what they thought were perfect birthday gifts. The gifts of a "grabber" and a phone with huge numbers to this man who was still so vital was tasteless. The scene played out perfectly. The extras and smaller parts were fantastic as well. I especially enjoyed watching the thugs and gangbangers. They looked great and were very believable. The locations in gritty Detroit were just right. Whatever time Eastwood and Team spent scouting locations really paid off. Clint Eastwood proves yet again that he is the best living director. I really enjoyed this movie. Clint Eastwood's fans won't be disapointed...neither will movie lovers. This is a home run.Read full review
Clint at his best. Intriguing &stirring. A man sticking up for people he was normally prejudiced against. People can change given the chance or right reason.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
This is an excellent film by Clint Eastwood, a retired auto worker who lives in Detroit. This is a very poignant film showing a bridge between cultures and a bridge between generations. Eastwood lived his own life and was not politically correct nor did he bow to the church---He did however, believe in the triune God. This film also takes into account gangs and gang initiation. The ending is a complete surprise. Please see this film.
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