Gran Torino Analysis

People’s experiences and values may determine their journey’s and purpose in life; these may be influenced by a variety of factors. This is certainly the case in Charles Dickens 's novella A Christmas Carol and the film Gran Torino. Both texts exhibit the presence of these factors, however, these are explored differently in each. Dicken’s creation of the hard and antisocial Scrooge, had been shaped by his previous relationships; with Fan, Belle and his business partner, Marley. Whereas, Walt Kowalski’s interactions with people, including his neighbours (the ‘Mong’ family), dead wife and priest are contributing factors to his future and transformation - with his time at War contributing mainly to his present. Despite this, these characters share

He was upset by the display, and only continued to become more reluctant to join the ghost as memories of his ex-fiance were seen. This situation, was written with purpose - to enable Scrooge to change his ways and reflect back on his past, in order to be ‘saved’ on future. If it was not for the ghost, Scrooge wouldn’t have revisited this scenario, and hence there would have been no impact on his future actions. Although, the loss of Belle was a key component in the way that Scrooge viewed himself, both back then and in the present. Belle had mentioned that he ‘was another man’ when they first met, although Scrooge was too blind to notice his actions. This had changed after viewing his past, with him gaining the tough knowledge of his money-hungry personality - and applying the christmas spirit to every day in the future. Alternatively, Walt’s recollection of his wife is something that was not forced upon him, rather due to the love he felt for her. Despite this, Walt still was able to learn from his wife, and apply some of her beliefs/knowledge to his own life. Whether it be sacrificing himself for his neighbours, or even going to church, as she wished - all of that was due to his love for his