The 50 Best Movies of 200826 of 50
25. 'Gran Torino'
It's a film that has its flaws, no doubt. Clint Eastwood's character growls like a dog, for one. His relentless use of ethnic slurs (for comedic effect?!) goes overboard, too. But the fact that Eastwood turns the year's most miserable SOB on screen (he plays a racist Korean War vet) into an unlikely hero worthy of tears shed (standing up for his Asian immigrant neighbors) is a stunning accomplishment. This IS Dirty Harry, 35-odd years later.
It's a film that has its flaws, no doubt. Clint Eastwood's character growls like a dog, for one. His relentless use of ethnic slurs (for comedic effect?!) goes overboard, too. But the fact that Eastwood turns the year's most miserable SOB on screen (he plays a racist Korean War vet) into an unlikely hero worthy of tears shed (standing up for his Asian immigrant neighbors) is a stunning accomplishment. This IS Dirty Harry, 35-odd years later.
PeopleClint Eastwood
TitlesGran Torino