Flawless, slow-burning masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (23 August 2011)

Clint Eastwood growls and scowls his way though an impressive, slow-burning drama. It marks another milestone in Eastwood's career as both actor and director, from his early, merciless- killer roles (Dirty Harry) through his apparent realisation of the burdens associated with these acts (Unforgiven).
A very poignant tale of redemption, it follows Korean War vet Walt Kowalski's (Eastwood) journey towards acceptance of his Hmong neighbours,after young Thao (Vang) gets caught up with a gang and tries to steal his car.
This is another masterpiece from a director/actor at the top of his game. Fine support comes from Carley and a cast of Hmong amateurs, only one of whom had ever appeared in a film before.
The soundtrack boasts an unlikely duet between toughguy Clint and Brit ivory-tinkler Jamie Cullum. It's a fitting end to a film about friendships that cross age and cultural boundaries. 5/5