Good story, some holes

Rating: 6/10 (12 June 2009)

Walt Kowalski (Eastwood) befriends Tao (Vang) to keep him away from street gangs. Walt is a Korean War Vet and has a sour attitude on just about everything. His wife just died and he is now alone in a neighborhood that has many Korean neighbors and he isn't happy about that.
The story is a good one, but there are some holes and maybe this is why no Oscars. What is important in here is what wasn't addressed. His wife. Seems he loved her dearly, but none of her influence had much effect on him. He is mean and sour on everything and everyone including his sons. There were many of her friends at the reception after the funeral at the house, but very few comments about her were heard and Walt wasn't too interested in hearing them anyway. None of her friends came around afterwards. That seemed strange to me. He gains some civility just by interacting with his neighbors and that is a good thing. And, actually, the movie became more enjoyable because of that. Walt's relationship with teenager Sue (Her) was pure gold.
Another hole is his confession to Fr. Janovich (Carley). We thought we would learn something about the way Walt is and the guilt he appears to be carrying around with him. We learned nothing. Very weak confession. Again, the wife seemed to be the key regarding what he confessed, but she didn't have that influence either.
Another hole, if it could be called that (and you know I do), is his attempt to man-up Tao in front of the barber and the construction boss. It all just seemed over the top and quite unnecessary. Very stilted dialogue here. In a way, embarrassing as well.
Other than that, the movie is quite good. It could have been titled Walt or even Kowalski since the story is really about him. The Gran Torino was just the carrot and a reminder to him that there were times when life was good. Also both are one of a kind and no one should change them.
This is an exceptional cast and with Mr. Eastwood directing we expect no less. You will have to be ready for much language and ethnic slurs spewed by Walt. Thank goodness the Korean neighbors were very understanding because despite his behavior, language and slurs directed to them, they considered him a very good man. He becomes their protector from the gangs.
Maybe because of the way Walt is, you kind of expect Dirty Harry to emerge. Stay tuned.
Violence: Yes. Sex: No. Nudity: No. Language: Yes. Throughout. Ethnic Slurs: Yes.