GRAN TORINO (MA15+) presented on 35mm

Gran Torino at The Revival House Perth

Walt Kowalski (Clint Eastwood) is a bitter, foul-mouthed Korean War veteran living alone in a rapidly changing Detroit neighborhood, nursing his prejudices and grief over his wife's recent death. His prized possession is a pristine 1972 Gran Torino—a relic from his days working the Ford assembly line and a symbol of an America he believes has disappeared. When his teenage Hmong neighbor Thao (Bee Vang) tries to steal the car as a gang initiation, Walt catches him and reluctantly becomes involved in the boy's life. As Walt mentors the shy Thao in everything from home repair to talking to girls, he forms an unexpected bond with Thao's family, particularly his strong-willed sister Sue (Ahney Her). But when the local Hmong gang escalates its violence against the family, Walt must confront both the demons of his past and the question of what it truly means to be a man.

Clint Eastwood directs himself in what may be his most personal film, a meditation on masculinity, redemption, and America's changing identity. Walt Kowalski initially appears to be another Eastwood tough guy, but the performance reveals layers of pain, regret, and unexpected tenderness beneath the growling exterior. The 2008 film doesn't shy away from Walt's racism, instead showing how genuine human connection can begin to erode decades of learned hatred. Eastwood crafts a deliberately paced character study that builds to a powerful climax echoing both Western showdowns and Christian sacrifice. The supporting cast of non-professional Hmong actors brings authenticity to their community's story, while Eastwood's restrained direction and Kyle Eastwood's haunting score create a film that's both quietly observational and deeply moving.

Original format and audio experience of this film faithfully reproduced by The Revival House. Presented in 35mm film unless noted otherwise.

When: Sunday, February 8th at 4:30PM
Where: The Revival House at the Como Theatre
Rating: MA 15+ (Strong coarse language and violence)

Eastwood's profound meditation on redemption and what we leave behind—experience this modern American masterpiece on 35mm film.

Presented by: The Revival House Perth