Gran Torino: The Film Title
The title "Gran Torino" holds significant relevance throughout the film, serving as a powerful symbol and plot device. The 1972 Ford Gran Torino owned by Walt Kowalski plays a crucial role in several key moments of the story.
Highlight: The Gran Torino serves as a catalyst for the relationship between Walt and Thao, ultimately becoming a symbol of their bond.
The car first appears when Walt's granddaughter expresses interest in inheriting it after his death. Later, it becomes central to the plot when Thao attempts to steal it as part of a gang initiation. This event leads to Thao working for Walt as restitution, setting the stage for their developing relationship.
For Walt, the Gran Torino represents his past, his American identity, and his pride in craftsmanship. For Thao, it initially symbolizes a means to gain acceptance but later becomes a representation of his connection with Walt and his own personal growth.
Quote: "Yes, because the Gran Torino is an important symbol in the whole film. It's one of the most important things of Walt."
The title "Gran Torino" is indeed appropriate for the film, as the car serves as a metaphor for the characters' journeys and the bridging of cultural divides. It's not just a vehicle, but a representation of the American Dream, personal legacy, and the passing of wisdom from one generation to another.
Character Analysis: Walt Kowalski
Walt Kowalski, the protagonist of "Gran Torino," is a complex character whose journey forms the heart of the film.
Vocabulary: Hmong - An ethnic group from the mountainous regions of China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.
Walt is a Korean War veteran living in a changing Detroit neighborhood. As the only remaining white resident, he initially harbors strong prejudices against his Hmong neighbors, often using derogatory terms like "swamp rats" and "barbarians."
Key characteristics of Walt include:
- Physical traits: A gruff, aging man with a perpetual scowl
- Skills: Skilled in car repair, reflecting his blue-collar background
- Habits: Heavy smoker, often seen with a cigarette
- Prized possessions: His Gran Torino and his dog
Walt's relationships are initially strained across the board. He's uncomfortable around people, especially strangers and his own family. However, as the story progresses, he forms a close bond with his young Hmong neighbors, Thao and Sue.
Example: Walt's transformation is evident in how he goes from calling his neighbors racial slurs to risking his life to protect them.
Walt's character arc is driven by his growing relationship with Thao and Sue, which helps him confront his past traumas and prejudices. His biggest fear seems to be dying alone, and his greatest regret is the lives he took as a soldier.
Definition: Character arc - The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a narrative.
The most memorable scene featuring Walt is arguably the film's climax, where he sacrifices himself to protect Thao and Sue, demonstrating how far he's come from the bitter, isolated man we meet at the beginning of the film.
