A perfect example of how a brilliant movie can be ruined by bad acting

Rating: 7/10 (15 June 2009)

I watched Gran Torino yesterday. Being a big fan of Clint Eastwood and his films I was very much looking forward to seeing this film and as far as script, directing and plot went it didn't disappoint.
The dialogue was great and it is definitely one of the more interesting scripts with a great character development process (especially with the main character) and a touching and rather surprising ending.
Clint Eastwood proves in this film that he should be recognised as being among the great film makers and actors of his generation.
However... Something needs to be said about the god-awful casting of this film.
Bee Vang, who plays the main supporting part of Thao in the film has got to be one of the worst actors I have ever had the displeasure of seeing on screen. Granted he's a first timer, but in my opinion that is not an excuse. Throughout the film, his complete and utter lack of acting talent is enough to make you cringe yourself silly. He is completely wooden and unbelievable - one particular scene that involves him banging on a cellar door in frustration is so amateurish that the entire emotional side of an otherwise well-written scene is completely lost on the audience. Hopefully, and most likely, Bee Vang's acting career will be nipped in the bud after this.
The other supporting characters were also very bad. Thao's sister was marginally better than the others but her performance still left much to be desired. The scene in which she returns after being brutalised by her own cousin is very poorly acted and she seems emotionally unaffected by the whole thing in the scenes that follow.
All in all, Gran Torino is a brilliant movie that is ruined by bad acting, and although acting is not the whole movie it is one of the most important aspects. The whole feel of the film is pulled away from the viewer when they are forced to endure such horrendous performances.
However, I plan on seeing this film again soon. Now that I know what to expect from the supporting cast I am prepared for it and may be able to emmerse my self more into the story.
If the acting had been acceptable this film might very well have received 8 or even 9 stars from me.
7/10