Characters

The movie Gran Torino (2008) directed by Clint Eastwood presents the story of Walt Kowalski. Walt is an intolerant and old-fashioned former war veteran who lives in a neighborhood that has become a Hmong community. The story follows him as he unintentionally becomes the protector and role model of his next-door Hmong neighbors. 

Thao Vang Lor is Walt’s next-door neighbor. He is pressured by the local Hmong gang to join them, but when he fails his initiation and wishes to be left alone, the Hmong gang starts harassing him.

The relationship between Walt and Thao is of particular importance in the film. Thao becomes close to Walt when he is forced to work for Walt for a week after attempting to steal Walt’s Gran Torino as part of the gang initiation. Soon, Thao starts to enjoy working for Walt and helping the community, and Walt becomes his role model.

Thao’s sister Sue Vang Lor is also an important character. Confident and witty, she is the one who gets through to Walt and manages to connect Walt and her Hmong community. Though Walt is estranged from his family, he finds companionship in the Vang Lors. Father Janovich also helps to offer Walt companionship and guidance though Walt often refuses to accept it. 

Other important characters in the film include the Hmong gang, especially Smokie and Spider, the two stand-out members, and Phong Van Lor, Thao’s grandmother.