This is a movie that had an earthquake effect when it was released in 2009. With Gran Torino, Clint Eastwood did more than direct and star in a successful film: he signed a symbolic farewell to one of the most emblematic aspects of his acting career. It also received an exceptional average of 4.5 out of 5 from viewers on AlloCiné.
In this film, Eastwood portrays Walt Kowalski, a recluse, aloof and racist Korean War veteran who sacrifices himself to protect his Hmong family living next door. This role marks a departure from the tough and violent characters that marked his career, especially the legendary Harry Callahan, aka Inspector Harry (Dirty Harry, in English).
End of an Era: Goodbye Dirty Harry
Clint Eastwood announced during his speech that Gran Torino would be his last role as an actor, a decision laden with meaning, as the film represented the final rejection of the image of the lonely and vengeful white man that had accompanied him for decades. Fortunately, he broke that promise with New Chance and The Mule.
If Dirty Harry, the brutal cop figure of the 1970s, symbolized a frightened and angry white America, Walt Kowalski, though just as rough, undergoes a profound moral transformation. In a final scene full of symbolism, Walt chooses to sacrifice his life to save his immigrant neighbors rather than turn to the violence that characterized many of his former roles.
Rejection of violence and racism
Walt’s character, who makes racist slurs throughout the film, further illustrates the prejudices that are ingrained in certain parts of American society. However, as the story progresses, Walt begins to understand and accept his neighbors, breaking away from his original behavior to eventually protect those he initially rejected.
As one critic notes guard at the time of release”Gran Torino is an absolute rejection of the revenge and racism that characterized Clint Eastwood films like Dirty Harry.“
A symbolic and sincere farewell
Along with Gran Torino, Eastwood also pays homage to two key figures in his career: John Wayne and Don Siegel. The film is reminiscent of The Last of the Giants (1976), John Wayne’s last film, where he plays an old hero who refuses to continue to abuse the younger generations. A film directed by Don Siegel, who directed several of Clint’s films, including the first Dirty Harry.
Eastwood is part of this continuum, where he offers a reflection on the transition to an age where violence is no longer necessary to define masculinity.
Therefore, Gran Torino is much more than a simple drama: it is the end of an entire stretch of his career marked by the representation of violence and hasty justice. By rejecting this violence, Clint Eastwood offers a role imbued with regret and hope, both for himself and his characters.
Grand Torino is available until October 31st on Netflix.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
