GRAN TORINO - How Clint Eastwood Portrays Peace (Film Analysis)

As the biggest (and only) Hollywood movie featuring the Hmong community, Clint Eastwood directs and stars in this reflective suburbian drama, about characters struggling to find peace in a sunny but dangerous neighbourhood. Find out how Eastwood and screenwriter Nick Schenk uses classic screenwriting techniques to portray peace and resolve character arcs in a satisfying way. Enjoy my analysis of the 2008 film GRAN TORINO.
Special thanks to Chan Kit Wong for suggesting this review.
Directed by Clint Eastwood
Screenplay by Nick Schenk
Story by Dave Johannson & Nick Schenk
Starring: Clint Eastwood, Christopher Carley, Bee Vang, Ahney Her, Brian Haley, Geraldine Hughes, Scott Eastwood
Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures
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[@ShamblesMD]

I love that he doesn't do any flashbacks of his wife or the war, yet they both remain a heavy presence throughout the film.

[@NicholasOon]

Very true. Without telling us much, the film already shows us how these two influenced our main character so much

[@Afineaddition]

Eastwood's acting is so strong that you don't need any flashbacks

[@ShamblesMD]

@@npcimknot958 Definitely. My father-in-law was in the last war from 2004-2016 and he watched so many people died that he got admitted to a psychiatric institution for the past 2 weeks. He doesn't want to remember what he saw, what he had to do or the dog tags he would collect. He said if it was a traditional war, he may have been better fighting real soldiers. Not psychopaths who strap C4 to children and send them to soldiers pretending she lost her parents. Although he's getting better and leaves Sunday. I try to do things like golf or baseball, basketball, football games and prepare myself to be always happy around him, even if it's a bad day.

[@karlsnod2784]

I feel it puts more Emphasis on the severity of how they effected him, because without showing what he saw or did we have to imagine it. The human imagination is the greatest tool for an idea and the movie uses the idea to a great point

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

I think Walt seen Thao as the 17 year old he shot in the face. He had that very same rifle pointed in Thao's face and when Thao runs away, Walt never even calls the cops. Thao had that same scared look in his eyes as the boy he shot in Korea and Walt seemed to like Thao from that moment on. He was very relieved when he found out that Thao only tried to steal it because the gang bangers made him. I love this film.

[@herbert5727]

One of my all time favourite films.

[@NicholasOon]

Glad I could cover it! It surprised me because the title didnt really describe the movie at all. Though I guess it is a metaphor of some sort for maturity

[@sauldibari6598]

Q N same

[@user-ne6nz2lb6w]

@@NicholasOon Ig Gran Torino is used as a memento in this movie to show Walts most prized possession or the only thing I. Life he has to live for now to where he passes it on. Something like that idek if that made sense

[@NicholasOon]

@@user-ne6nz2lb6w I think you could be onto something there. The Gran Torino is a symbol for sure. I also think it's a symbol of Walt's spirit and his life. Something that he could pass down to his sons, but his sons have deviated from his values too much. Thao serves as his surrogate son, sharing his values and ultimately bringing out the best of Walt, restoring his spirit and his peace.

[@bradyscraft2188]

Same

[@sleepytmk]

Favorite movie of all time. The ending scene is one of the most selfless and noble things I’ve ever seen. I cry every single time. Walt is such a hardass but he grows to care for Thaos well being and it’s beautiful

[@NicholasOon]

Of all time? Wow, that's a big statement. Glad you enjoyed the movie.

[@flightofthebumblebee9529]

Watching the way this grumpy mean old bastard warms up to Sue and Thao and their family was a beautiful thing. Walt seen Thao as that 17 year old boy he killed in Korea and Everytime he looked at Thao he was reminded of that which is likely why he was so kind to him (although the occasional verbal assault LOL). The way he guided him and taught him how the real world works was something only a man could do and Thao likely worked construction and put himself through college and went on to have a great life which is exactly what Walt wanted. The part where Thao finally stands up for himself when moving the freezer was funny because Walt then tried to act like he didn't want it anymore when clearly he knew that Thao's family needed a new one. They made lots of food for him and he was over there all the time so it made sense. He was always showing Thao how to fix things but also how to think and achieve goals and stuff like that. The ending was perfect because Walt was a changed man, and he wouldn't spill anymore blood (even if the bastards deserved it). He definitely didn't want Thao involved, and Walt was also likely dying. This was all the reason he needed to ensure Thao and his family remained safe forever.

[@autumnaticfly2965]

I just watched this movie for the first time. It's been on my list for a while and as you said, at first I thought it's probably about racing and cars. But then I saw a clip of it and I was hooked. I can't help but notice how the piece in the newspaper that Walt read on his birthday foreshadowed the ending. "Anti-Climax". Especially coming from a Clint Eastwood movie and the music at the end in front of the gang's house. It reminds you of Eastwood's prime years as a gunslinger. You expect him to gun down all these goons in a matter of seconds. But all he does is pull out his lighter. It sure is anti-climactic as deep and meaningful it is. But that's the point. I love this movie. From now on it's one of my favorites. Just came by cuz I needed someone to talk to me about this movie. Great video! thanks,

[@NicholasOon]

You're spot on there! I'm sure that newspaper part was put there deliberately. I have seen Clint Eastwood's older films too and it supports your theory pretty well. So glad you watched this for the first time and had a good experience! Thanks for leaving the comment

[@davidma6616]

Just for the purpose of debate, I would say that it wasn't so much "anti-climactic" as it was a "subversion of expectation". IMO, it was still pretty dang climactic how it all went down - just happened in a way that we didnt' expect. The rising tension and drama built very steadily with the way he rolled up and intimidated them SO MUCH with what was (presumably) just a handgun in his pocket. And then that tension POPS when he whips his lighter out and they proceed to light him TF up in spectacular fashion. That said, I get where you're coming from with that word choice. We're all used to him portraying more fantastical gunslinger characters, so the natural expectation is for him to want to take as many of them down with him as possible, or something like that. In that sense, I suppose it is less climactic, but still I'm not sure about 'anti-climactic'. Sorry, getting in the weeds of semantics here. Glad you enjoyed the film. I saw it when I was a little too young to fully understand all the themes, so I'm looking forward to re-watching it soon.

[@autumnaticfly2965]

@@davidma6616 Oh boy, where do I even start. Well I totally agree with your word choice. It wasn't long ago when I made that comment, but I've come to learn a lot more about story and structure through these two years, for sure. So yeah, I do agree that "anti-climactic" isn't the best desperation for that ending. But aa you say, it doesn't indeed lack that conventional climax and I guess that's where I got that from. My expectations were indeed subverted, and that was amazing. It's truly a unique movie, filled with so many great details. Thanks for replying and reminding me of it again. Every once in a while I remember this movie and have an urge to watch it again.

[@chai_lattes]

I wonder what peace was left with Sue. She was the most vibrant and brave character throughout the story, bringing people together and standing up for her values. Her character deserves peace. The end of this movie was so frustrating and sad. I like how this analysis pieces together the different character arcs and themes to bring the whole picture together.

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks for the comment and for bringing up Sue. Sadly I do agree that the ending of the film was sad for her. No matter what justice did for her and how she fared after, she'll never be able to wipe the trauma away and we can only hope that she had the immense strength to thrive in spite of it.

[@NicholasOon]

@라라이트 we can only hope. Walt acted as the saviour figure in this film and perhaps with time, Thao and Sue will gradually forget all the trauma and live their lives to the fullest. It's a dream for post-film reflection.

[@karamcsand]

Thanks for this comment. Even though I loved most of this movie, Sue's storyline was the reason why I think that this movie is awful, a failed project. Yes, it can happen in such a story that the success of some characters (like Thao) and the heroic sacrifice of another (Walt) cannot stop bad things happening to others. But the movie does not even make a try to somehow show it - it rather forgets about it. Sue was an absolutely main character in this story and when we see the "driving away in the sunset" ending scene, it is all about Walt (car is the symbol of his legacy) and Thao. This movies does not give a sh*t about Sue. The good solution could be to let her sit next to Thao in this scene. But who was there? LIDDY THE DOG!!

[@NicholasOon]

@@karamcsand it's a really good point and I can absolutely see what you mean now. The film missed a huge opportunity there to at least show some of that trauma, and it seems like because of that, the film is not as realistic as it could be!

[@chai_lattes]

@@karamcsand I understand your frustration and disappointment. They really didn't make an effort to give justice to her character when she essentially embodies the heart of the movie and was often the catalyst for compassionate and courageous change and bringing other characters together. Now that you mention the symbolic imagery of the final scene, it makes me realize Sue was almost used as this non-romantic manic pixie girl. I don't think she is one, but I think the way the filmmakers in essence abandoned her storyline at the end unfortunately relegates her role in the movie as a plot device meant to propel the story and development of other (oftentimes male) characters. I suppose you could rationalize their decision as illustrating the brutalization of women and children during wartime and how they often serve as collateral damage. Their deaths, trauma, and stories unheard and forgotten. But what doesn't make sense to me is why they would choose to do that when the movie's message is about peace and resolution. Even though the movie ends on a hopeful notes, it's almost a slap in the face to the audience. What does the movie say about trauma or courage when the most grounded and brave character is punished for being herself and standing up for what's right? It's contradictory and makes the ending feel like a hollow victory. Thanks for sharing your thoughts! It made me consider more deeply why I felt so frustrated and almost apathetic or dejected after watching this movie.

[@LAIRA3040]

I just watched this movie for the first time. Holy moly what a dam movie. I loved this movie, 100 percent one of my all time favorite movies

[@NicholasOon]

Glad you thought so! Hope you got a new perspective from the video

[@BearOfNorway]

This is my all-time favourite movie. It tackles racism from three different perspectives. What it is and how it asserts itself in a community, understanding of how it might arise, and how it is diminished. Referring to the contact theory of Gordon Allport, this movie makes a lot of sense. It feels firmly ingrained in reality due to its consistency with acknowledged theories. The movie basically states ''We could fight racism by co-operating towards achieving a common goal'' and that statement has basis in solid theories. Bravo.

[@NicholasOon]

I like how you brought academic theory into the conversation. I haven't heard of Gordon Allport's work but it has piqued my interest!

[@codyC423]

When this movie came out I thought Clint's best movies were behind him (but he was still one of the greats). I was wrong. This is hands down his best movie ever. There's SO much to unpack here and I learn something else about Walt as a character every time I watch this. Clint Eastwood is an absolutely brilliant director and one of the best actors of all time

[@NicholasOon]

Definitely a screen legend. Haven't seen his latest film but it's impressive that he's still going strong into his golden years

[@huggleskuishy]

Great review dude. If all your videos are this quality, you’ll blow up in no time.

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you very much for watching and commenting mate. I certainly hope so too!

[@FunBoysGaming]

@@NicholasOon Sadly, you didn’t. But keep up the good work.

[@bewilderedgamer3615]

Watched this a very long time ago and when I returned to watch it about a week ago, I finally saw that Walt sacrificed everything to save the Hmong. My dad was sort of like Walt, even though he wasn't a veteran he would've sacrificed everything to save his family. This is how my dad wanted to go, sadly he didn't get the chance. Ever since his passing, this has become my favorite movie by far. Clint Eastwood is a hell of a man.

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you for sharing your story. It's heartwarming how you've related the film with the events in your life. Keep on loving the film.

[@benv7933]

Watched this movie for the first time today. We need a lot more movies like this.

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks for the comment, Ben! I would also agree that we should have more well-written movies with underrepresented communities in significant roles.

[@Carstuff111]

Winter of 2008, myself and my then girlfriend were both excited to see this movie. I picked her up an hour away, brought her back to my town and we watched this in one of the nicest theaters in my area. By the end of it, we were both stunned and in tears at how amazing this movie is. It made the 2 and a half hour drive to take her back in the snow and hour drive back when the snow melted as fast as it had fallen, absolutely worth it. This is a masterpiece of cinema. It is a shame the actor that played Thao ended up dumping so much hate toward this movie more recently, considering this is a realistic look at the world, and how a man honorably sacrificed himself to save his new family, his friends and his neighborhood as a whole. This movie is glorious.

[@flacocoque5712]

This movie is pretty accurate about growing up in a neighborhood that’s rough or “in the hood”. The awkward kid trying to live a normal life let’s old guys get away with racial slurs while at the same time being bullied by his cousin.

[@NicholasOon]

Sorry if you had that experience. Can't imagine how rough it is.

[@FunBoysGaming]

@@NicholasOon How‘d you knowthats his experience?

[@bananka4905]

The old guys were from all races. And not to be taken serious.

[@ebofthechill8008]

I thought it was interesting the zoom out from walt's death shows he's layed out on the ground like the crucifix

[@NicholasOon]

Yes very symbolic. I thought it was a little bjt too on-the-nose, but 'interesting' is probably the right word

[@davidlean1060]

@@NicholasOon I like that Eastwood lays his symbolic cards out of the table so clearly. Like in HIgh Plain's Drifter, Clint more or less spells out that the stranger is the avenging ghost of the murdered sheriff. Some symbolism isn't so easy to spot in Gran Torino though. The Checkered cab bringing the neighbors to the funeral, you spotted that one, right? In esoteric symbolism, a check pattern symbolizes the good and bad in all men.

[@logicaldude3611]

The redemption arc, dying to save others, his relationship with the priest... It all has a Christian ethic to it.

[@artemusprine]

@@NicholasOon Don't think I had noticed that, so maybe not lol

[@PogamanationOfficial]

Walt hit the Walter White

[@chelmrtz]

Seeing Thao drive on Jefferson ave in suburban Detroit makes me feel a lot of things because we lost my dad in January and he liked that drive too

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you for sharing such a personal memory. Hope the film honours that memory well

[@jabenapkin4246]

I love this movie but it makes me very upset and sad

[@NicholasOon]

It isn't the happiest of endings, indeed. Is there anything in particular about the end that makes you sad?

[@mpccenturion]

@@NicholasOon For those of us old enough, to have a lotta grey hair, and lived, I have to say - that I see the world as Walt. There is good and evil. There are those who try to not get bothered, but are harassed by those agents of evil. I am no better - but have the sense to try to improve things for others, even when those "others" are not personally known to us. Do you stand there when a man beats and woman - or child? Do you stand there when people - teens//thugs/gang - work at intimidating people? Do you stand there - when a druggy is trying to intimidate a pharmacist and other staff? Would you do One Thing - to improve your life and that of others. No one looks - at the old guy with a cane, with fluorescent stripes , so his does not get run down at night. It takes less than a second - to hook a knee and topple a thug. Its not like movies. You never want to be known, but it does bring a smile, as you walk away. And who is going to believe, that an old guy is that fast! Cheers - I will tip a whiskey to your health. I always lived life asking WHY?

[@NicholasOon]

@@mpccenturion very philosophical and I would admire the courage of anyone who lives life to help others.

[@mpccenturion]

@@NicholasOon Sincerely it begins with one Decision. I was not philosophical some 40 yrs ago. I was a squid. I ran the grey - to survive. But I gleaned in that instant = how to LIVE my life - and flush the other! I hope to hand to torch - to those struggling to make landfall. Cheers!

[@thomaswest2262]

That's what a good movie does to people. Gives u strong emotions

[@brometheusthefirstbro4302]

and thats a new sub, i love film as an art form and a form of story telling so i am always living for channels that make video analysis on films

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks a lot bro! Look forward to more

[@flxalb1149]

how hasn't this got more views? Amazing work!

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you very much! Look forward to more

[@Jared_Wignall]

I really love this film. I think this has Clint’s best performance as an actor. This may not be my favorite Eastwood film, that would be Unforgiven, but it’s defiantly up there as one of his best for sure. Great video.

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks a bunch, Jared. Appreciate the comment and glad you enjoyed the film and video. Big shout saying this is Eastwood's best performance, but glad you think so!

[@flinbrentwood9684]

This was a fantastic analysis of a fantastic movie. I finished this movie and I was in awe, I loved it so much, but I couldn’t really put my finger on why specifically it was so good. This review cleared up everything lol. You are great at making these man keep it up.

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks Flin! Look forward to more!

[@atenraakhu7416]

At first I watched the movie because the title was familiar to me, my Father happened to be a Korean War Veteran who also had a Gran Torino ( a 1974) and was wounded in battle. As Clint Eastwood character in the movie he also had bitter and painful memories, which affected him throughout life. To me Gran Torino indeed is Clint Eastwood masterpiece.

[@NicholasOon]

Sounds like your dad meant a lot to you. Thanks for sharing such a personal experience. Much love.

[@DelightLovesMovies]

I love a great film like that, made me cry a few times.

[@NicholasOon]

Always great to hear the love for this film.

[@robertlehnert4148]

My top Eastwood movie, and in my top 5 movies of all time. Says a lot, also about Redemption, for multiple characters:Walt, Thao, and the Priest.

[@NicholasOon]

Many thanks for the comment, Robert. Fully agreed on the redemption theme. Peace is quite a significant element of redemption, don't you think?

[@thomasreilly9252]

This is a quality review. Keep up the good work! I had just watched a few scene clips from the movie when my eye caught your video's thumbnail image on my recommended list. Both the title and thumbnail image dared me to click and watch. It was a surprise that your channel hasn't "yet" drawn huge numbers. I believe eventually it will - peace

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks a bunch Thomas! Look forward to more content, and take care.

[@tasosm.380]

Great movie, great video. This channel is underated

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you for saying so. I appreciate it. ❤

[@basti.9022]

Movie was such a beautiful film and your explanation just elevated it for me.

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you and glad you enjoyed the movie and the analysis!

[@xpollo7782]

Amazing analysis bro, very entertaining! I love this movie

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you xpollo! Glad you enjoyed the movie. Look forward to more!

[@dlaird8]

This movie was a tearjerker. Its absolutely beautiful.

[@NicholasOon]

I thought it was quite powerful the first time I saw it as well!

[@tuhinbhattacharjee3459]

Beautiful analysis bro ❤️ Was having mixed feelings watching this movie but the way you analysed it , it is no more than a masterpiece really This was a really beautiful movie with strong character depth Basically it's a pure character study

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you Tuhin, this means a lot!

[@davideggleton5566]

I have yet to watch the movie, but was intrigued and was doing quick research. This video (despite spoilers) further cemented my resolve to locate and watch this movie. Thank you 🙏

[@NicholasOon]

Hope you managed to catch it in the end!

[@xanderpeters3221]

An excellent analysis of the movie, and an in-depth one as well. Can't wait to see more! Subscribed for sure. 😄

[@NicholasOon]

Many thanks Vicarious! Appreciate it, and look forward to more

[@maxcelcat]

Wow. This was a fine analysis. Nice work.

[@NicholasOon]

Many thanks! Appreciate the kind comment

[@BANDIT-gp5ix]

commenting just because this is such a great fricking video

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks for the kind words, Bandit!

[@paulcook1494]

I can’t count how many times I’ve watched that movie, and it’s still deeply emotional for me every time, truly one of the best movies I’ve ever seen.

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks for the comment Paul. I’m always surprised how deeply this movie has affected so many who watch it. Have a great week ahead!

[@copingflower1909]

I finally got around to watching this movie yesterday and damn was it a great novie the ending was sad though but works surprisingly so mjch better then the run and gun route they hinted at 3 or 4 times

[@NicholasOon]

Yeah, I think it was executed well. One old man against a gang is reserved for movies like Nobody or the John Wick franchise, but don't think Clint Eastwood would be able to pull it off!

[@mandiola2010]

This movie is a true work of art. A timeless jewel.

[@NicholasOon]

Looking back, not sure if this movie could be made today, but I do agree it's a really good film

[@austin9373]

Beautiful analysis. A sub for you good sir please keep up the good work!!

[@NicholasOon]

That's very kind of you. Many thanks, and look forward to more

[@orjay6745]

Very interesting perspective, we've been dealing with this movie in school for the last few weeks (i'm from germany and where I live this movie is part of my final exams). We mainly looked at aspects of walt being a hero, sacrifice and so on, but never really talked about peace itself.

[@NicholasOon]

I see! Well I'm glad to be able to offer a different perspective 😃

[@herri.6996]

We looked at the ambiguity of belonging, masculinity as a masquerade, his sacrifice, walt and universalism.

[@yeetyboii]

That was very helpful for my finals exam, as I didnt really remember much from the movie, but didnt want to bother watching it again! Thank you very much :) Viel Glück an alle, die die kommenden Tage noch mündliches Abi haben P.S.: In germany the verbal final english exams are currently being held, including me. So I guess there would be more people like me here (Probably more so on the german summaries of the movie tho lol)

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks Leon! I'd love to know what other films get asked about in the exam!

[@BigJermNotWorm]

Definitely my newest sub! 💪🏾 Question: where do you get the movie clips from to use in the video ?

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you for subscribing! Movie clips are probably from the same place everyone else gets them from

[@theUkrainium]

I saw this when it came out. Stellar damn movie. The end was the cherry on top, 10/10. Such a great story.

[@NicholasOon]

Hello! It's a pretty memorable ending, isn't it! Glad you had the chance to see this in theaters!

[@capncake8837]

Ay, I’m the thousandth like! This really does deserve more views and likes.

[@NicholasOon]

Many thanks for being the thousandth like! Appreciate ya and thank you for the kind comment

[@itstimetohajima9524]

I have my wace exam tomorrow and this has honestly helped! Thank you !!

[@NicholasOon]

Very glad to hear! Hope the exam went well

[@cb-9938]

Amazing movie I get goosebumps everytime he tells them to get off my lawn

[@NicholasOon]

Speaking in hindsight but it is certainly a very meme-able quote

[@voosum]

I lived in buffalo when this came out and i know this felt like my time living there

[@NicholasOon]

Really? That's interesting, thanks for sharing. Must have been a rough place, so hope it wasn't as bad as was depicted in the film

[@alexcallejas2562]

I've actually been searching for this movie since 2016 and I'm glad I now what it's called now thank you

[@NicholasOon]

Well I'm glad I helped you out! Hope you enjoyed the video.

[@alexcallejas2562]

@@NicholasOon oh I did and because you helped me you gained a new subscriber

[@NicholasOon]

Wow, thank you so much, Alex. I appreciate it, and look forward to more

[@RickMahoney2013]

Love this movie watch it all the time in the year of 2021 learn something new every time I watch it

[@NicholasOon]

It's pretty great how I've found so many people that enjoy this film. Thanks for the comment.

[@Thunderbird616]

Good take bro you definitely did your research on this movie 😁

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you for the kind comment.

[@chrisr610]

Its beautifully poetic how Thao goes from attempting to steal the gran torino to earning it in the end

[@NicholasOon]

Truth

[@tristan489]

I dont know how I found this but its great

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you! Stay tuned for more!

[@russellj.s.257]

The last great movie before we divided as a nation,never again will we see a masterpiece like this fine film

[@NicholasOon]

I'm sure there are great movies about American unity post-2008.

[@8drot186]

"Through action, a Man becomes a Hero Through death, a Hero becomes a Legend Through time, a Legend becomes a Myth and by learning from the myth a man takes action."

[@NicholasOon]

Well said! Thank you for the comment!

[@kincaide67]

Wonderful take on the film! Thanx. Take care.

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks a bunch, friend. You too!

[@ultime321]

I love this movie. For me, its about breaking down the barriers of racism and fatherhood. Walt was too cold and made mistakes with his kids but did something incredible with Thao. Thao was the classic fatherless boy, unconfident, without his own will and lost in life. He is weak and alone. He almost went down the gang route because he had no male role models and support group. Walt made him work, he didnt treat him like a baby. It was this hard work snd expectation from the father that gave Thao the confidence to find a job, get a girlfriend, grow up and build a relationship with his "father".

[@NicholasOon]

Interesting take! Thanks for sharing and really glad you love this movie

[@briancschiel6215]

Well done. Thanks

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you very much!

[@yingleevue8989]

I love to watch this movie and want to see Hmong people in the American culture and movie too.I hope someday I can tell my story to a writer so they can make a movie and then people can see.

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks for the comment and I look forward to seeing your film in the future as well!

[@MontanaCheeky]

Great video.

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you very much! Let me know if you have any ideas on what films I should cover next

[@capricorn839]

Another Clint Eastwood's classic that I loved to watch !

[@NicholasOon]

Really enjoyed watching it too!

[@xavierpark5937]

Wow , this video made me appreciate this movie more . Sub , you're talented i love this movie .

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks a bunch, Xavier. Appreciate the comment

[@joeperks1472]

Really enjoyed this video essay. Thanks

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks for the comment! Glad you enjoyed the video

[@versatileduplicity9313]

When he called her Dragon girl 🤣🤣

[@yuh4566]

great job king !!!

[@NicholasOon]

Many thanks, friend!

[@drakealexander6668]

I always see the Priest as Walt's conscience. He always comes with a path to do better but is not the way Walt was to go. At the end, he talks over to his conscience and gains peace.

[@NicholasOon]

Good shout. Aligns with the priest being a representative of religion and spirituality

[@killern3rd422]

I love how spiteful clint felt and acted and personally i enjoyed how he just seems to hate everybody. On an outside perspective it might come off racist, a typical old folk stuck in the sands of past, but it's clear that there are clear boundaries to what he says and the primary mode of expression that can be both endearing and warm but also piercing and thorough. Although I understand why some people may take issue in what he spits out, the context of the matter is there and it's really just the outlet of expression that he confides, that being this aggressive and overtly creative manner that he insults people. something that I very much enjoy and I find solace in in this world that evidently has become ever-so politically correct and sensitive over certain subjects. though it isn't a bad thing, it's welcoming to see this perspective of mutual bickery and verbal jousting.

[@NicholasOon]

Really interesting opinion. I never interpreted Walt's slurs as having boundaries unless you count 'not killing people' as a boundary. To me, the important thing is that he chose to put his life on the line to save his spiritual family despite the racial cultural differences. That creative manner of insulting people is personally not for me, but I do agree that it is endearing at times, especially when Walt is teaching Thao how to curse at people.

[@jaimesalazar4759]

why isnt there any “ending explained” videos. i really didn’t understand what happened. like what was his plan while approaching the gangs house like that ?

[@NicholasOon]

What happened was Walt decided to sacrifice himself in order to save his neighbours from being continuously terrorised by the gang. It was his plan all along to bait the gang into murdering him so they would be arrested.

[@mikespearwood3914]

What should also be pointed out is that it's implied Walt might have a terminal condition, as it's shown his health is clearly declining...even more motivation to sacrifice himself for Tao.

[@NicholasOon]

@@mikespearwood3914 Yes that is a good point as well!

[@FunBoysGaming]

What’s there not to get? Walt had cancer anyway, so he decided to sacrifice himself as a victim of murder as to get the thugs arrested and let Toad live in peace

[@EricCartman915]

Basically he got everyone's attention that lived by the gang house by causing a scene, then pulled out a lighter like he was pulling out a gun causing the gang members to kill him even though he was unarmed. This was meant to get them caught commiting murder in front of a bunch of witnesses so the entire gang could be sent to jail. He sacrificed himself because that was the only way they could be stopped from hurting anyone else

[@unclejoe3397]

I absolutely love this movie. People told me not to watch it cause it was racist. I watched anyway and it is one of my top all time favorites. I just love stories of redemption. He and others were redeemed for sure. Thanks!

[@NicholasOon]

There was definitely overt racism but it wasn't played to an effect that the film condones racism. In fact, you could even criticise how on-the-nose the racism was in the film.

[@NotLoZerish]

Watched this movie last night. I love how much I hated the family lol. They did a really good job at making them so unlikable

[@NicholasOon]

Walt's family? Yes they were horrible! That's how they got us to like Thao's family more, I suppose!

[@rat161]

@@NicholasOon Thao needed that guidence he deserved to help his family and he does through walt, thay is why he is my favorite character.

[@NicholasOon]

@@rat161 It is a great exploration of character needs and motivations.

[@mindphaserxy]

This movie will go down as one of the greatest looks at modern society ever filmed. It's not whitewashed nor does it lightly tread over subject matter like changing demographics, race and violence. In 2022 there is a lot of relevance considering recent events and the ever growing division in America. The character of Walt is the kind of protagonist that has a lot prejudices and misunderstanding of his new foreign neighbors to realizing they just want the same things as anyone else in their lives. I think it's a far better film than Crash as a societal commentary.

[@NicholasOon]

Definitely agree that it has relevance in 2022. Reflecting on the film, I can't say that it says everything perfectly, but it achieved what it thought it intended to do at the time. Thanks for the comment

[@Milestonemonger]

I don't know shit about cars, I thought it was about an old man (Clint Eastwood) named Gran Torino. Awesome movie 🎬 ⭐️

[@NicholasOon]

You could make a strong argument that the movie isn't really about a car at all. 😄

[@jorgea.r958]

Great track.

[@NicholasOon]

I think so too. Not many people like Clint Eastwood's singing at the end but the score is good overall

[@keyser9020]

Second movie ever to make me cry at the end for like 10 minutes

[@NicholasOon]

Wow it must have had such a huge impact on you! Hope you're doing okay, and take care.

[@Captainmarex]

A great film!! and video

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you, Dude! Look forward to more.

[@jakemccormick4651]

This movie made me cry

[@NicholasOon]

I'm sure you're not alone, Jake. I'm constantly in awe of how many people loved this movie.

[@Edwardrabbit]

great video

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you! Look forward to more

[@mike813333]

Great movie!

[@NicholasOon]

I would say so, yes!

[@nickroolll]

This movie mad me cry

[@NicholasOon]

It does have really sad parts. Hope the film left a strong impression on you.

[@PepperBuddyRosie12]

A great movie!

[@NicholasOon]

Can't argue much with that!

[@sebajun8601]

Keep up man

[@NicholasOon]

Assuming there is an 'it' missing in there, so thank you good sir

[@whenthepawn99]

Does anyone else feel that he saved himself at the end? In a way? He obviously did it because he wanted those men to go to jail, because he loves Sue and Thaos but he is also making up for what he did in the war. He tells Thaos that his soul is stained from what he did. He doesn't have peace because he feels guilty. When he sacrifices himself, he does it for Sue and Thaos, but he absolutely could have killed those gang members as vengeance. He actively chose to sacrifice himself FOR the family, because he killed a guy like Thaos in the war. It makes it more complex because Walt isn't just a white saviour trope, he is atoning and also he died to protect people he once hated.

[@NicholasOon]

Could definitely have been on the character’s mind! It brings up a good question of what atonement means. It is an ultimate sacrifice to give your life for others, does that really atone for all the lives taken during the war? In the character’s mind, it could!

[@ricksimon9867]

All the characters except Thao are pretty simplistic. Walt has lost his purpose in life; his family does not understand what it is he needs; and then Thao and the Hmong community provide Walt with a new purpose; and as soon as he accepts that, he is willing to commit the ultimate sacrifice to protect that "new" family. I like it; it is a good movie. But it is not a "masterpiece".

[@NicholasOon]

I can see where you're coming from. Stories don't necessarily need to be masterpieces to be appreciated.

[@alexleal2634]

Whatever happened to Yum Yum?

[@NicholasOon]

It was racist to the point of hilarity, to be fair!

[@alexleal2634]

@@NicholasOon hahaha Great Analysis bro!

[@tommoutsios7005]

gran torino is one of the best movies i have ever seen at first i thought it will be just this super racist man that just hates all colors but you know the rest

[@NicholasOon]

It was a good tale of redemption and I'm glad you enjoy the movie so much

[@beegchungus3721]

Apparently they didn’t even write this movie, they just put Clint Eastwood in the Midwest and started filming

[@NicholasOon]

Ha! A documentary, then!

[@samuelbanner6262]

In a way it's like when God shows moses the promised land but tells him he cant enter it and that it is not for him. Not that he physically couldn't but he wouldn't live to see the generations who would benefit off of his work. I supose one of the messages is that sometimes we have to dedicate and even sacrifice our lives for others being completely selfeless to truly achive peace.

[@NicholasOon]

Interesting viewpoint. I'm sure many of us want to create a better world for future generations, and that's something Walt definitely wanted to do.

[@zfoxfire]

I never watched this film before because I never was much of a movie goer but also the previews usually give me wrong impressions of what the film is about. I mostly heard about this from friend who would make joking references to the "get off my lawn" scene. This led me to think it's just some dumb film about tough guys, macho masculinity, gang violence, and old people yelling at kids. Maybe I don't have an open mind to dismiss those first impressions but I'm glad to see that there is character exploration and depth and moral study in this movie. It appears I was wrong and I'm going to actually watch the whole movie soon and not jut some clips.

[@NicholasOon]

Thanks for the comment, and yes I'd welcome you to watch any film before making any snap judgements! I agree it's easy to get caught up in the reviews and memes, but until you see the film itself, you'll never truly understand how you feel about it.

[@sarge5470]

Good movie

[@NicholasOon]

Can't say I disagree

[@DineshSingh-pr4ij]

That car (Gran Torino) has a deeper meaning

[@NicholasOon]

It does, doesn't it? What does it mean to you?

[@DineshSingh-pr4ij]

@@NicholasOon omg you're still checking the comments. Love the video! I would say it represents

[@kurtdanielson993]

I thought Walt had terminal cancer and pulled the plan together to die by the gang in order to free the neighborhood and himself from the pain and loss of freedom of the cancer.

[@NicholasOon]

I'm sure there was an element of both in his rationale. I'd also add that freeing the neighbourhood was also something he felt compelled to do as he found a spiritual family who he had a better relationship with than his actual family.

[@BudoThePaladin]

The thing that is missing from your analysis is that the hero, Walt/Walter Kowalski, is seen coughing up blood, which then leads to him going to the doctor, receiving a battery of tests, and it's never disclosed what he was diagnosed with, but it's obvious whatever it is, it's terminal. You can tell by the scene where he looks at the medical folder with his test results, doesn't look pleased by it, and then you see him calling his oldest son just to ask how things are. This is out of character when you compare it to an earlier scene where his oldest son calls him instead of him calling the oldest son. In that phone call, the son beats around the bush by making small talk, asking how he is, but then leads to his purpose for calling, which was just to get a favor out of him. Walt was displeased by it and hung up while muttering "oh, you f*ck." This is important for your analysis because it ties into why he sacrificed his life instead of just killing them. If he wasn't terminally ill, he would have had a different plan, just like how if he wasn't terminally ill, he wouldn't have called his oldest son just to ask how things are, that whole scenario was similar to a scenario in another movie "Ip Man 4" where Ip Man is played by Donnie Yen. SPOILER ALERT for those who have not watched Ip Man 4 and would like to without being spoiled. Ip Man is diagnosed with terminal cancer in that film, and all he has is one of his long time friends and his teenage son, who keeps getting into fights and schools are kicking him out. Instead of telling his son anything initially, he flies from Hong Kong to California to find a school for his son. He never ended up disclosing it, his long time friend did because he would drop by now and then to check up on his son and to take the international call, but that was because Ip Man and his son were going through a fight and his son had been ignoring taking his calls when he was away in California. So the long time friend snapped at Ip Man's son for not taking the call, told him he has cancer, and the kid immediately changed his tune and went crying on the phone begging his dad to come home soon. Point in me mentioning it is that the scenario where Ip Man did not want to burden his son with the knowledge of his father's untimely death is very similar to this, that Walt felt like talking to someone at that moment, but refused to not only because he was never close with his sons, but also because it would be unfair to burden them after all that's happened between them. This changes that evaluation you made about the hero being too late to save or whatnot, because there is nothing too late about a terminal illness, it's just another part of life, especially at those older ages. It was Walt's time, and he had the choice to sit there and wait to die from his terminal illness, or to do something impactful with his final days he has left on the planet. My idea is that Walt figured shooting and killing a couple wouldn't stop the survivors, and since he'd be either killed or wounded anyways from the gunfight, he wouldn't be there to help afterwards. So since he already knows he is dying soon due to his terminal illness, he decides to make his death meaningful. Understanding this is important because it helps you understand people like Walt. It gives you hope for them because the message about people like Walt in this movie is that they still have humanity within them regardless of the hurtful/ignorant things they may say. If you notice, Walt never DID anything wrong or rude, he only SAID things that we don't accept. This message is shown by the beginning of the movie, because the first insight you get on Walt's character is from the viewpoint of his 2 sons. The viewer at this point has no idea of the relationship Walt has with his family, how his family is with him, and etc. So for the first time of watching the movie, it would be typical for the viewer to see Walt as a bad person, or at the very least just not a sociable one. This changes as you gain insight on what Walt's values are, for example when he was on his porch and saw the neighbor's paper grocery bag handle rip and the groceries scatter on the ground. Some Hmong kids passing by don't help and instead mock her from behind after passing her by. Walt is disgusted by the behavior and as he was about to get up to help the neighbor, he witnessed Thao go over to help, which he was happy to see. You see more about his values as well when he sees the black gangsters harassing Sue and pulls his Colt M1911 on the gangsters to get them off her, and gives her a ride home. Then, you see his humanity exposed when the drive-by shooting happens. He walks back into his home and punches out 2 of his cabinet glasses and sits on his chair shedding a tear as he completely ignores that he is bleeding from his fists. You see another example of how much he cared about the situation because that night he saw that Sue was beaten and most probably sexually assaulted. He mentions it to Spider, who is supposedly Sue and Thao's cousin, shaming him for doing that to his own family. All in all, I think your review wasn't bad, but this one detail was a huge one to miss, because it changes your analysis of Walt, he did not indirectly save the world or in this case his Hmong neighbors, it was all his intention, why else would his will be set up to give Thao the Gran Torino, the house to the church? He intentionally avoided giving anything to his family because all he saw from them was materialistic selfishness when they interacted with him. His granddaughter only wanting his car, his oldest son and his wife only wanting him to go to a retirement home so they can take the house and sell it for money/rent it out, not to mention they made that move on the guy's birthday, it's rude as hell. He gave the house to the church not only because his wife would have wanted it, but because the Father seemed to care about him and initiated interactions with him more so than his family. He gave the Gran Torino to Thao because he saw a good kid with good values that he wasn't seeing in others his age. I love Walt's character, someone who is based and doesn't care about all those little lies that the world has in place just to keep things friendly, he cares about the truth and doing what's right. Absolute chad who does things his way, not how a sheep would. One who forges their own path will head towards their goals, one who follows the other's path will head towards complacency.

[@NicholasOon]

Thank you for the very detailed reply! I appreciate you taking the time to comment about an aspect of the film that wasn't part of the video.

[@BudoThePaladin]

@@NicholasOon Just wanted to point it out because I saw it as a critical detail. When one knows they are dying soon, it changes their rationale and decision making, that's why I felt it was important enough to write an entire essay over it. Sorry if it came off as very critical of your analysis, I didn't mean it to come off that way, I do think it was great you hit all the other points well. Keep up the good work I'd love to see more of these because I always wonder if everyone picks up on every little detail when watching movies like these.

[@DinoMan_6]

Red Dead Redemption 2 is my version of Gran Torino.

[@NicholasOon]

Never played it, but I'm picturing Client Eastwood in the dollars franchise.

[@Randommmmm204]

This would've been my favorite movie if Thao's acting wasn't so bad.

[@NicholasOon]

Was it bad? I thought it was alright.

[@Randommmmm204]

@@NicholasOon I thought it was horrible.

[@NicholasOon]

@@Randommmmm204 heh ok, fair enough. I still thought it was alright. If anything, I thought the line delivery from Sue's actress was way more wooden because she was the more positive, chirpy character. But as a whole, I think it's also important to realise that there the talent pool is much smaller in the Hmong-American community, and coming from a country with a relatively less stellar film industry, I'm more accepting of acting that doesn't quite hit the mark if we are giving opportunities to underrepresented individuals.

[@Randommmmm204]

@@NicholasOon I'm not trying to shit on his performance, I just saying that it wasn't too good.

[@NicholasOon]

Alright! Let's agree that it was far from Oscar-worthy for sure.

[@criticality2056]

Seems very misunderstood by most everyone here. It's better than you'll think for reasons not considered.

[@NicholasOon]

Would be really interesting to hear your perspective as well. Feel free to share!

[@criticality2056]

@@NicholasOon All the "normal" people (his kids, grand kids, etc) are outwardly more acceptable, but all of them are shown to be shallow, selfish, disrespectful, greedy and the like from the grandkids being disrespectful at church during the funeral for his wife to the kids trying to edge him out of his house. Walt on the other hand, who is depicted as bigoted, mean, etc just has little patience for their bullshit. He's nicer than I'd be about it all. Walt's only appears to be a misanthrope by the people who take no time to understand. Walt is irritable because people are doing legitimately irritating and disrespectful things around him, like the granddaughter eyeballing his car to get when he dies. On the contrary you see what he appreciates when he sees the kid help the old lady with groceries across the street, the little conversation he has with his dog. You know he sees hope in the kid, thinks he's maybe not a useless shit like the rest. Notice also how Walt interacts with people, like how Walt talks with the barber. Crass banter that seems derogatory and racist until you understand the nature of their association. It is just light work of taking the piss out of each other. The mutual irreverence they use for banter is based on an underlying respect and humor. They both have a go and fire back just as hard, cause they're friends. Its humor, a piss take at the others expense based on their history and familiarity. They made a stark point of this when the barber pulled the gun on the kid. It was a joke, but a way to say "you don't know me well enough to do what you're doing". This is resolved with a laugh right after the kid makes an accidental joke and pulls it again. A laugh, little familiarity, and the kid takes the piss out of the barber a bit. The stage has been set, the nature of the relationship is defined. Good shit. It's how men work. This is shown again with the girl that lives next door. She doesn't shy away, but instead doesn't back down, takes shots at Walt with banter in a bit of a different style and legitimately does nice things for him. You see he appreciates that, and sees good in her. Walt looks for substance and doesn't have time for surface niceities. Like how he deals with the priest. Belittling, dismissive, and honestly who can blame him, but when the priest shows up with some backbone Walt deals with him on his level. Makes him earn a bit of respect. You always hear about racism, or bigotry when it comes to this movie, but honestly I see it quite the opposite. Walt is crass and irreverent, but he's that way to everyone. A little more than skin deep you see that he just wants real substance, real people, and has no time for horseshit. By the end of the movie he has taken the family next door as his own far more than his own family, looks out for their well being and the wellbeing of the community, protects them, defends them, and in the end sacrifices his life so they can have a future because that's what is really important to him. We should have more Walts in the world, we'd be better off. It is a western couched in a run down town with a retired gunslinger who finds a purpose.

[@samuelkilik8233]

wow

[@postmellon8138]

I saw this film as a kid and thought it was good but for a long time I had no idea walt was played by Clint Eastwood and I’ve seen the good bad and ugly before too as a kid so it was such a surprise and I have no idea how I didn’t connect the dots but nevertheless this movie was great and some might say a masterpiece just a funny story lol

[@NicholasOon]

I too saw the Good the Bad and the Ugly way before I saw Gran Torino. Good performances in both films!

[@SeasideDetective2]

I don't think GRAN TORINO is particularly good. It seems to me to give a stereotypical depiction of Korean War veterans, or at least those who live in the Rust Belt. I also think it's slightly odd that Hmong and Koreans are compared in this movie, for they look almost nothing alike.

[@NicholasOon]

Plenty of controversy around the depiction of minorities in the film! Can understand it as a southeast Asian, but can’t lie that it personally didn’t take away the narrative power of the film for me

[@aizensosuke873]

Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. Matthew 16:24-26

[@NicholasOon]

Interesting, can definitely feel that undercurrent throughout the film

[@Milestonemonger]

I love how Clint Eastwood shows that old people can be badasses too 💪💥

[@NicholasOon]

His portrayal of characters of late isn't without its problems, but referring exclusively to this movie, I would agree with you!

[@cjhl0383]

I actually dont know how people can like this movie. Tha acting is way too bad for me not to laugh at it. The acting ranges from ok to "the room" bad. Even some of the whole scene are cringe like the "how guys talk" scene. I actually dont know how it got on the Imdb top 250. Probably the most dissapointing movie I've seen from that list

[@user-rr8ri3ri2t]

If "bad" acting keeps u from realizing the message of a movie than i can't help u

[@cjhl0383]

@@user-rr8ri3ri2t Movies also aren't all about "the message" though

[@NicholasOon]

Acting is rough around the edges, sure. There's also an argument to be made that Hmong actors aren't exactly abundant in supply (especially experienced ones), so context is important. Willing to look past the acting to the film's underlying commentaries

[@regan.8077]

Other than Clint the acting is pretty bad. That's not too important for a film with a message and this had a great one.

[@NicholasOon]

I wouldn't say the acting in this film is Oscar-worthy, let's just say. There's something to be said for the fact that finding Hmong actors in America is probably not the easiest thing in the world. The talent pool isn't as wide.

[@MrBrownsugar85]

lol watched this movie again cause of covid lol

[@NicholasOon]

An interesting choice of film to watch during Covid, but probably even more relevant now with all the anti-Asian hate