Gravitating to the grouch and his ‘Gran Torino’

Clint Eastwood stars in and directs “Gran Torino,” about a grouchy, narrow-minded former soldier who distances himself from his Asian immigrant neighbors, but inevitably bonds with them and protects them from the neighborhood gangs.

Walt is a widower who spends his days cleaning his 1972 Gran Torino, mowing his lawn, and criticizing people. He doesn’t bother mincing words and is a guy who laughs at his own racist jokes. But when he sees injustices being committed, he becomes colorblind and protective of his new friends, young siblings Thao and Sue (Bee Vang and Ahney Her).

While it’s a touching drama that speaks of cultural diversity and generational ties, there are funny parts that showcase Walt’s politically incorrect ways, and his awkward transformation to someone who’s somewhat tolerant and understanding. These, and the film’s occasional deviations to odd buddy territory, can elicit hearty, sometimes nervous laughter. There are serious parts that become bleak and distressing, which balance things out. Ultimately, it’s perplexing but meaningful, a timely and strong film that ponders the universality of tragedy and generosity.

“Gran Torino” will be in theaters starting Feb. 18^th.