Question
How does Walt show discrimination in the film Gran Torino?
Answer
In the film “Gran Torino,” Walt Kowalski, portrayed by Clint Eastwood, exhibits discrimination primarily through his use of racial slurs and his initial disdain for his Hmong neighbors. Walt is depicted as a Korean War veteran and a retired auto worker who is deeply resentful of the demographic changes in his neighborhood, which is now predominantly inhabited by Hmong immigrants.
Instances of Discrimination
Racial Slurs and Stereotypes: Walt frequently uses racial epithets and derogatory language towards his Hmong neighbors, referring to them with terms like “gooks” and expressing disdain for their customs and food (McBride and Shahamiri, 2011; Davis, 2010; Barrera, 2011). His language reflects a broader resentment towards the multicultural shift in his community (Wells, Yao and Benjamin, 2015; Davis, 2010).
Isolation and Prejudice: Initially, Walt isolates himself from his neighbors and expresses a preference for the company of his dog over people, including his family and the local priest. This isolation is partly fueled by his prejudices and discomfort with the changing cultural landscape around him (McBride and Shahamiri, 2011; Davis, 2010).
Cultural Superiority: Walt’s interactions often imply a sense of cultural superiority. He attempts to “man up” Thao, a young Hmong neighbor, by teaching him what he perceives as American masculine norms, suggesting that Thao’s cultural background is inadequate for success in American society (Wells, Yao and Benjamin, 2015).
Evolution and Redemption
Despite his initial discriminatory behaviour, Walt’s character undergoes significant development throughout the film. He forms a bond with his Hmong neighbors, particularly with Thao and his sister Sue, which leads to a gradual softening of his prejudices. This transformation is marked by his growing respect for their cultural and social challenges and his eventual self-sacrifice to protect them from gang violence (Kroenert, 2009; Davis, 2010; 류승구 and 이형섭, 2015).
Conclusion
Walt Kowalski’s character in “Gran Torino” initially displays discrimination through racial slurs and cultural prejudice. However, the film also portrays his journey towards understanding and redemption, highlighting the potential for personal growth and cross-cultural connection.
References
McBride, D., & Shahamiri, L., 2011. Gran Torino. Contemporary Justice Review, 14, pp. 359 – 364. https://doi.org/10.1080/10282580.2011.589673
Kroenert, T., 2009. Redeeming the All-American Racist. **.
Wells, S., Yao, P., & Benjamin, C., 2015. Discourses on gender and sexuality. **, pp. 154-178. https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9781139059251.009
Davis, A., 2010. Gran Torino and Star Trek. New Political Science, 32, pp. 163 – 168. https://doi.org/10.1080/07393140903492324
Barrera, A., 2011. Gran Torino. Journal of Feminist Family Therapy, 23, pp. 146 – 151. https://doi.org/10.1080/08952833.2011.574042
, 류., & , 이., 2015. 과 에 나타난 탈냉전과 교외/거주공간의 재해석. **, 16, pp. 409-434.
Gran Torino (2008). [Film]. Directed by Clint Eastwood. USA: Warner Bros.
