I'm not sure what I'm looking forward to the most—the actual story of Gran Torino or just seeing Clint Eastwood be his usual bad self. I love the stoic, chiseled glares that burn a hole right through you. I can never get enough of them (although it's a good thing he didn't do a television series or I might have my fill after 24 episodes). This time, the steely eyes of vengeance are not for the rowdy cowboy villains, the latest serial killer, or an assassin trying to murder the president. This time, the targets are local gang members. I love the way that Eastwood continually positions himself against viable, historically-accurate villains for the settings of his movies.

Gran Torino centers around the life of Walt Kowalski (Eastwood), a grumpy old widower and war veteran, whose miserable life is interrupted by a gang of punk kids. When his neighbor tries to steal his prized possession, his 1972 Gran Torino, he unwittingly becomes entangled in the lives of the local gang members.

Whispers from friends say that this movie is ultimately about self-redemption, but I suppose we shall see this weekend. If you haven't seen it yet, get to the movies this weekend and check back for a good review from me next week.