Gran Torino Essay

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Today’s society is brimming with discrimination, violence and prejudice between races and cultures. The critically acclaimed drama, Gran Torino does an exceptional job in tackling these issues head on. Clint Eastwood as Walt Kowalski, is angered by the ongoing cultural changes throughout his neighbourhood. However, as Walt develops a strong relationship with a Hmong family, he recognizes the importance of acceptance in society, while overall enhancing his character development. Through Clint Eastwood’s film, the viewer is able to trace Walt’s character development in order to learn valuable lessons and create a new perspective on appreciating differences as this class embarks on the study of world religions.
In the beginning of the film, Walt is an old-fashioned elderly man who is very disconnected from his family. He is also a bitter, racist, blunt and refuses to adjust to the new immigrant-dominated …show more content…

In today’s society some people are still judged for their race, colour, gender etc. In spite of this, it is important for people to form relationships that surpass cultural indifference. This is proof in Thao and Walt’s relationship in Gran Torino . It is important for individuals to look past their own prejudices and realize we are all a part of the one race, the human race. In addition, Walt sacrificed his life for the safety of Thao and Sue. This Christ-like action teaches people about love and sacrifice. Likewise, it is important for people to put others before themselves. Furthermore, this movie discusses the detrimental impacts of war. Walt’s prejudice was blinded by the painful memories of war. In everyday life, many people experience hardship and grief which can alter their opinion on world cultures. In order to get over this prejudice, individuals must face their hardships head-on, just as Walt was able to. These lessons can, and should be carried out in daily

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