Masculinity in Gran Torino

The film Gran Torino presents a complex exploration of masculinity through its main character, Walt Kowalski, and his relationship with his young Hmong neighbor, Thao. The movie delves into various aspects of traditional American masculinity and how they are challenged and redefined in a changing society.

Symbols of Masculinity

Walt's character is surrounded by numerous symbols of traditional masculinity:

1. The Rifle: Walt keeps a rifle at home for self-defense, reflecting his military background and the idea of a man as a protector.

Highlight: The rifle serves as a symbol of Walt's past as a soldier in the Korean War and his adherence to the notion of self-reliance and protection.

2. Work Ethic: Walt's lifelong career at Ford represents the traditional male role as a provider and the value placed on hard work.

3. Vehicles: Walt owns two distinctly masculine vehicles - the Gran Torino and a pickup truck.

Definition: The Gran Torino is described as a "muscle car" due to its powerful engine, symbolizing strength and American automotive prowess.

4. Tool Collection: Walt's impressive tool collection showcases his self-sufficiency and practical skills, which are admired by other men, including Thao.

Behavioral Traits

Walt's behavior also exemplifies traditional masculine traits:

1. Commanding Tone: Walt often expresses himself with overt racism and commands, which the film presents as a sign of masculinity in his generation.

2. Emotional Suppression: Walt embodies the idea of "being hard on oneself" and showing no weakness, suppressing feelings to survive.

3. Male Bonding: The relationship between Walt and Martin, the barber, demonstrates a form of male bonding through playful insults and shared experiences.

Example: Walt and Martin's interactions show how men of their generation express friendship through seemingly harsh banter.

4. Family Role: Walt represents the model American family man of the 1950s, having married, raised a family, and been the sole provider while his wife stayed at home.

5. Respect for Women: Despite his gruff exterior, Walt treats women with respect, particularly evident in his relationship with Sue.

Quote: "I may not be the most pleasant person (...), but I got the best woman that was ever on this planet to marry me" (50:46)

6. Vices: Walt's excessive smoking and drinking are portrayed as stereotypically male behaviors, emphasizing his tough persona.

Thao's Journey to Masculinity

The film also explores masculinity through Thao's character development:

1. Initial Portrayal: Thao is initially shown as lacking traditional masculine traits, often criticized for doing work considered women's duties.

2. Contrast with Peers: Thao's indecisiveness is contrasted with male peer groups in gangs, highlighting his struggle to fit into masculine norms.

3. Walt's Mentorship: Walt helps Thao develop what he considers necessary for a male identity:

   • Teaching "masculine language"
   • Helping him secure a job
   • Assisting in his romantic pursuits
   • Lending him the Gran Torino to impress a girl

Analysis: The Gran Torino becomes a symbol of Thao's transition from adolescence to manhood, with Walt ultimately bequeathing it to him.

The film Gran Torino thus presents a nuanced view of masculinity, showing both its traditional forms and how they evolve across generations and cultures. Through Walt and Thao's relationship, the movie explores the transmission of masculine values and the potential for growth and understanding between different generations and ethnicities.