Gran Torino Discussion Questions

Gran Torino Viewing Questions

Setting- How does the physical state of the neighbourhood impact the movie? What do the condition of the homes say about the neighbourhood? How has the neighbourhood’s population changed over the years and why? Why has Walt stayed? In the film, there are many shots of the neighbourhood that depict how worn down it is. This adds to the change that has happened in the neighbourhood, with many refugees moving in and a growing gang problem. It is especially noticeable when young Thao is working for Walt, who makes him clean up surrounding houses and fix problems presented by the neighbourhood. This occurs about halfway through the movie and there are many different shots of Thao working; he is seen painting a fresh coat on the side of a neighbour’s house that looks to be falling apart, as well as digging up a large rotten tree stump. This series of scenes highlights the fact that, for the most part, the neighbourhood is very poor. On the other hand, I think that at this point the contrast between how well Walt keeps his home looking and how the rest of the neighbourhood looks shows some more depth to the character (Walt). The audience can realize that he is very old-school in a lot of aspects but is determined and strict I his ways. In addition, the reasons for his grumpiness and bad attitude start to come …show more content…
However, Walt has stayed in the area. I can see a few reasons as to why, despite the neighbourhood change that he much hated. Walt would never accept to moving into a retirement home. This is clear when his son proposes the idea and Walt kicks him out of the house. Besides that, Walt lived in this house when he was married to his wife of 50 years and I do not see him leaving, especially after she has passed away and the house is a part of her that he can hold