Gran Torino
Last night I saw the new Clint Eastwood movie "Gran Torino". Eastwood both directed and starred in this movie which is rumored to be the 78 year old's last film. He plays the leading role of Walt Kowalski - a grizzled war Veteran who is a product of the Korean war. I typically enjoy Eastwood's movies including The Unforgiven and Million Dollar Baby. I would say this movie is as good or better than either of those moves. It was truly outstanding. After a year full of action packed movies enhanced by CGI (Batman, Ironman, Wanted) it is really refreshing to see a movie that simply relies on a good story and good acting. Eastwood gives a spectacular performance. I will give one warning, this movie has strong racial tones. If that type of thing offends you, I wouldn't recommend it. I could see where this movie would offend some people who are hyper-sensitive to racial slurs. I am guessing that accounts for the few negative criticisms that the movie has received. Gran Torino is a social commentary on modern racial issues. It addresses several very real urban struggles including diversity, tolerance and gang problems. I should note that typical of Eastwoods other moives don't expect to be blown away from the first scene. There is some time taken to develop the characters which is key to the plot. Some people could percieve chunks of this movie as slow; but every scene and set of dialogue has a purpose. Make no mistake, if you take Eastwood out of this movie, you don't have a movie. If this is indeed Eastwood's last performance, I'd say he coulnd't go out on a higher note. I would be surprised if this movie didn't win at least a couple of academy awards including best actor. I would highly recommend this movie. 9.5 out of 10.
-Jim
Mike - the best way I can describe Eastwood's character is a badder, tougher, older version of Dirty Harry, so you should not be disappointed!
My wife and I loved Gran Torino. The funniest lines I have heard in ahwile. The language does not bother me. In fact, the neighborhood this is portraying is where both my mom and dad grew up. Both of my grandparents lived in very similar homes. That was very cool for me to remember. I was remembered of the verse, no greater love than this than he who lay down his life for his friends. Also, just because you use language that others deem racist, does not make you a racist. Clint does this in a lot of his movies. Takes a traditional view and then blows up the argument. Similar to million dollar baby.