An example of how cinema makes life better.

Rating: 10/10 (20 June 2010)

The trailer of "Gran Torino" really caught my attention. But I really didn't know what to expect with such a... sui generis plot.
The first five minutes of running time set the movie's tone and send you a message of what to expect. We are in front of an unconventional plot with black comedy, drama, and magnificent character development.
Clint Eastwood delivers one of the best performances in the past years. His role as Walt Kowalski is like a gift from Heaven for those who can't get enough of his talent. He's badass but suffers from the abandon of his family and the death of his wife. For an old man, it could mean a depression and neurosis but he's also capable of teaching a young boy what life is about. He also demonstrates he's a kind man and with an exquisite sense of humor.
The racist jokes and commentaries suit very good with the movie's tone. Those dialogs are filled with black humor and tongue in cheek humor. Although Bee Vang delivers a great, emotional performance as Thao "Toad" Vang Lor, he is eclipsed by Eastwood's performance. But the boy demonstrates he's a very good actor. This on-screen duo is But not everything is happiness. Some sad moments will even make you feel mad and hate the gang members. But Walt Kowalski is an old seawolf and knows exactly what life and it's burdens mean.
So through his experience, fierce attitude, badass behavior, and unique sense of humor, he teaches Thao a lesson of life.
Extraordinary Direction. Fantastic cast that is completed with Christopher Carley as Father Janovich and Ahney Her as Sue Lor. Father Janovic receives plenty of insults and bad attitude from Walt but still has the patience to convince him to "change". Walt teaches him that changing his vision towards life is not the solution. In fact, it's what makes him such a complex and sui generis man. Sue adds the tender, sassy, intelligent girl attitude that feels like fresh air in the plot. The rest of the Lor family is very endearing and tender. Specially the grandmother who "hates" Walt.
The score is outstanding. Fits perfect with the most important situations. Although the plot and direction may you think it looks like a Hallmark Television production; the cinematography and art direction is splendid that makes it look dark but with a positive vibe.
This is by far one of the better movies of the new millennium. Extraordinary display of power by cinema. It reminds us that life is better via all kind of situations. It will make you think about your attitude towards life and how you can deal with it Dirty Harry's style.
You will laugh, cry, feel happy, feel angry, think, reflex with "Gran Torino". A fantastic experience.