A Film Classic

Rating: 10/10 (17 July 2012)

What makes a film (Or any piece of fiction) a classic (Or not), is the degree in which you care about the characters. Was Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood) racist? Yes he was. But so was Archie Bunker and Sheriff Gillespie (Rod Steiger) in "In The Heat Of The Night". But deep down they are decent people who will do the right thing in spite of themselves. Perhaps the most revealing thing was when Walt realized that the Hmong People that he looked down upon, were actually far more decent and had more honor then his own family. His family were nothing but vultures who cared nothing for him, and were waiting until he died, so they can sell everything that he had (In particular, his prized 1972 Gran Torino), and essentially his life would become meaningless. Spoilers ahead: When he was willing to sacrifice himself (Thus making sure the gang what raped Sue, and terrorized the Community, would no longer be able to do it again), and even more importantly by donating his house to the Church (Which is what his wife wanted), he could receive salvation, and help others in need. Perhaps most important, by giving his Grano Torino (And although not stated, but heavily implied) his mint condition tool set, and thus a job to Thao (Bee Vang). When Walt is able to get Thao hired, one of the first questions asked is does he have his own tools? When you see the final scene with Thao and his girl friend in the car, you can see how much he appreciates the gifts Walt gave him (Based on the condition of the car and his improved attitude). In effect, Walt will not be forgotten about, and although he failed with his own family, he succeeded in accomplishing something good with Thao and his family, and through him, he will not be forgotten about. 10/10 Stars.