Gran Torino DVDGran Torino is a very compelling move starring the now very famous Clint Eastwood.

For fans of his work, this will fit right in as another great Eastwood movie.  This one stars him as a retired auto worker and veteran who lives in a neighborhood that has changed with the times eventhough he has not.  This juxtaposition of his set in his ways thinking along with a new Asian immigrant family creates the backdrop for the film.

What I Liked?

Clint Eastwood does not make bad films.  Even his bad ones, are still good movies and so is this one.  Here, his character is a lovable character as people understand why he is the way he is: here, he is essentially a stubborn, crotchety old man who is at odds with his kids.  With this said, one of the biggest surprises and best parts of this movie is the next door neighbor’s daughter who plays a fantastic role of an Asian American balancing the Americanization of her growing up in America with her ties to her Asian culture as a new immigrant.  She provides just the right blend here and adds extra value to the movie.

Obviously, people will like Eastwood’s no bs attitude in this film and many will sympathize if not agree with some of his viewpoints.  Either way, he overall comes across as a stand up person with strong character which has been his calling card in all his films.

What I Did Not Like?

The ending was clever and realistic, but no the Eastwood way.  For audiences used to him coming out as the great shooter or clever winner who figured a way out, the ending may seem disappointing as there is a bit of a misdirection.  For those who have yet to see the movie, I will not discuss it any further to avoid running the ending.  It is enough for me to say that this movie sets you on one course and then goes another.

Overall, this movie is a good movie that many Eastwood fans would say is great.  I personally think he has done better work and this one gets a better score in people’s mind because of his overall past body of work.  Regardless, it is still a good film and I would grade it an A-.  Clint Eastwood certainly has moved to the upper echelon of actors as a Hollywood legend.

If you would like to buy this movie, click on Gran Torino DVD.