1. Gran Torino Set in Detroit, Michigan in the 2000s
Title of the film comes from the name of the main character’s 1972 Ford Gran Torino (car)
What do you know about Detroit and its economic history?
Lots of car companies headquartered out of Detroit, Ford most notably
With the recession and modern technology, the factories began to shut down, leaving the workers jobless and neighborhoods where they lived up for “re-settlement.”

2. Gran Torino
The film focuses on Walt’s troubles accepting the changing ways of American culture, and Thao’s family adjusting to American values.
Walt begins the film as a grumpy old man who hates everyone different than him, especially his Hmong neighbors and his no-good family members.
Over time, Walt develops an important relationship with his neighbor, Thao’s, family which changes him greatly.

3. Gran Torino Main Characters:
Walt Kowalski: Korean War Veteran, ex-Ford worker
Thao Vang Lor: Hmong-American immigrant (Thailand, Vietnam, Laos)

4. Gran Torino Main Characters: Sue Lor: Thao’s sister
Father Janovich: Walt’s wife’s Catholic priest