9 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Gran Torino

Million Dollar Baby is reminiscent of Gran Torino because both movies showcase Clint Eastwood's extraordinary talent as both an actor and a director. Just like in Gran Torino, Eastwood's performance in Million Dollar Baby is captivating and authentic. He has a way of telling stories without being preachy or forcing his own agenda onto the audience. Instead, he allows the viewers to make up their own minds and connect with the characters on a personal level. Both films explore deep and complex themes, such as redemption, sacrifice, and the human spirit.
While Gran Torino focuses on the relationship between a disgruntled Korean War veteran and a Hmong teenager, Million Dollar Baby tells the story of an ill-tempered coach reluctantly training an aspiring female boxer. Despite their differences in plot, both movies share a common thread of unlikely bonds forming between characters from different backgrounds.

Opposite Sex, released in 2000, shares a few similarities with Gran Torino. Both movies revolve around a teenager who finds himself in a new and unfamiliar environment. While Gran Torino explores the relationship between a Hmong teenager and a Korean War veteran, Opposite Sex takes us to northern California, where a teenage boy enrolls in an all-female school after the death of his father. Both movies touch on themes of loss, adaptation, and the challenges of being a teenager in a new setting. However, the similarities end there. Gran Torino is a drama that delves into serious topics such as gang violence and prejudice, while Opposite Sex is a comedy with a lighthearted and innocent sense of humor. Despite their differences, fans of Gran Torino who appreciate character-driven stories and teenage protagonists will find Opposite Sex an enjoyable watch.

Unforgiven. There may never be another real western. Clint appears to be done with the genre and there really isn't anyone else I can think of that can do it Properly. Sergio Leone is gone. William Wellman is gone. Sam Peckinpah is gone. John Huston is gone. John Ford is gone. Howard Hawks is gone. Kevin Costner tries hard but he just doesn't get it. Dances With Wolves wasn't really a western. It wasn't even an anti-western. It was more like a political indictment of the actions of the Americans of the time. For all that I did enjoy it. Most of the others since Unforgiven are movies where somebody decides to put the characters on a horse, but the story is just generic pap. Nobody has the balls to make something with a meaning. I will grant that Deadwood is a truly excellent series but it isn't a movie.

The Mule, released in 2019, is reminiscent of Gran Torino. Clint Eastwood, the iconic figure in movie cinema, directed both films and continues to amaze with his ability to direct at nearly 90 years of age. While he has slowed down his acting in recent years, The Mule showcases his talents once again. The main story of The Mule revolves around Eastwood's character, a 90-year-old man who becomes the Mexican drug cartel's best carrier. This character's strained relationship with his family mirrors Eastwood's own life, as he has fathered multiple children from different women. The Mule strikes a balance between comedic and dramatic moments, making it an engaging watch. If this is indeed Eastwood's swan song in acting, it's a remarkable way to go. So, if you've enjoyed Gran Torino and want to see Eastwood shine once again, The Mule is definitely worth checking out.

The Boys is reminiscent of Gran Torino, but with a British twist. Set in 1962 London, this crime drama follows four troublesome teenagers who are charged with robbing a garage and murdering the night watchman. Like Gran Torino, The Boys explores the lives of young individuals who find themselves entangled in a world of crime and violence. However, while Gran Torino focuses on redemption and self-discovery, The Boys takes a different approach by presenting events from two perspectives: first, from everyone who encounters the boys during their night out, and then, from the viewpoint of the boys themselves as they give evidence in court. This unique narrative structure adds depth and intrigue to the story, making it a compelling watch for fans of crime dramas. So, if you enjoyed the gritty realism and moral dilemmas of Gran Torino, The Boys offers a fresh perspective on similar themes in a different time and place.

Bunch of Five is reminiscent of Gran Torino, as both movies explore the lives of young people involved in criminal activities. In Gran Torino, a disgruntled Korean War veteran tries to redeem a Hmong teenager who attempted to steal his prized car. Similarly, in Bunch of Five, Jonas and Emir, members of a criminal gang in Oslo, are offered a job by drug dealers, which sets off a chain of events that spirals their lives out of control. While Gran Torino focuses on the redemption of its characters, Bunch of Five portrays the gritty reality of young boys involved in drugs, violence, and theft. Both films provide an insightful look into the lives of troubled youth, but Bunch of Five takes a more realistic approach, showcasing the harsh realities that these characters face on a daily basis. So, if you enjoyed the compelling story and character development in Gran Torino, Bunch of Five offers a similar thematic exploration with a darker and more intense tone.

Youngblood takes us back to the 1970s with its blaxploitation vibe and gritty portrayal of a gang war in Los Angeles. The film follows the coming-of-age story of a 15-year-old black youth, who navigates the dangers of the ghetto while trying to fit in with the Kingsmen gang, led by the charismatic Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs. Bryan O'Dell gives a convincing performance as the naive protagonist, eager to prove himself in this harsh environment. While Youngblood lacks the critical acclaim and awards of Gran Torino, it makes up for it with a solid cast and an excellent score by War. The disco scene, reminiscent of Soooooouuullllll Train, adds a touch of nostalgia to the film. So if you're in the mood for a throwback to the 70s with a tale of gang life and the struggles of a young teenager, Youngblood is definitely worth watching.