Cinematic devices

The film Gran Torino (2008) by Clint Eastwood uses various cinematic devices to enhance the storytelling in the film and highlight different aspects of the narrative or the characters. 

Different camera angles and points of view help to show the relationships between the characters. High or low camera angles can intensify the physical height difference between the characters thus highlighting their hierarchy and the power dynamic between them. 

The lighting in the film is also used intentionally to add to the melancholy and somber mood of the film. Harsh lighting and scenes that are barely lit help to add to the feeling at tension of a particular moment. 

When it comes to sound, the film uses the song Gran Torino as a motif that shows up at key points in the narrative to signal Walt or Thao’s development. Military drum sounds are also used in moments of high tension to highlight how Walt’s background influences his current decisions and reactions. 

You can read more about the cinematic devices used in the film on the following pages.