Gran Torino - out of 5 reels, this movie receives *** (3 reels)

While viewing this movie, I greatly regretted not going to the theater for this film.  It was really hard to watch the entire DVD while holding the power to stop and finish reviewing at a later time.  I'm not sure I've ever heard a more racist script.  I was offended and I'm not of Asian descent.  The message is barely strong enough to overshadow the novice acting, tough-guy portrayal, and degrading references to Hmong people. 

Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood) is one disgruntled person.  He has recently lost his wife, can't appreciate or respect his two sons and experiencing his own terminal health issues.  Regardless of his dismay, being a prideful vet, he is still standing up straight and maintaining the best he can.  Walt has the less-than-great pleasure of residing next door to a Hmong family.  Trouble personally introduces Walt to the Lor family.  Their family structure is quite different from the world Walt is accustomed, but he learns to part from some of his traditions and standards to appreciate, befriend, and instruct his neighbors. 

The movie script and artistry are raw.  Both of the lead Asian actors, Bee Vang (as Thao Vang Lor) and Ahney Her, are new to the big screen.  Several scenes showed their lack of experience, but I was impressed with Ahney Her's performance as Sue Lor.  She was likely the most interesting character in the movie.  Not being a big fan of Clint Eastwood's performances (I did truly enjoy his performance in 1976's The Outlaw Josey Wales), I struggled to get past his Dirty Harry glare and his Bronco Billy stiffness.  For this movie, I will likely give him more credit for his directing.  The storyline attacked several stereotypes and issues.  It had to be difficult to find an appropriate balance for viewers.

Gran Torino is far from a 'must see'.  If you are into watching films which highlight the many diversity issues unique to our wonderful United States of America, defiantly plan on giving this movie a view.  This film holds lots of racist comments and very foul language, but it also offers a glimpse of an 'old dog' learning new tricks giving the viewer hope even for those that seem hopeless.