‘Gran Torino’ Essay Plan
Choose a film or TV drama which features an interesting relationship.
Describe how the relationship is formed, and how the director portrays the bond between
the two characters.
Each paragraph should include:
A TOPIC SENTENCE: this should tell the reader what the paragraph is going to be about, i.e.
sum up the main point of the paragraph
DISCUSSION: discuss the topic of the paragraph in more detail
EVIDENCE: refer to a particular scene/shot/line from the film which demonstrates your point
ANALYSIS: explain how this scene/shot/line demonstrates your point, and how well
Paragraph Plan
Introduction – introduce film, director, task and give your opinion
Summary – summarise film- keep summary relevant to the task
Paragraph 1: How do Walt and Thao first meet?
 Explain how the two characters first meet
 Explain Walt’s first impressions of Thao and why he feels that way
 Explain how Walt’s impression of Thao begins to change
o Cite a scene from the film which shows this (e.g. Walt sees Thao help a
neighbour with her shopping, it cuts to Walt’s reaction – which is surprise)
o Explain how this scene shows us this
Paragraph 2: How does Walt and Thao’s relationship grow?
 Explain how the two characters grow closer
 Explain the role that Walt is beginning to play in Thao’s life
o Pick a scene which shows us this (e.g. Walt teaches Thao to talk like a man)
o Explain how this scene shows us this
Paragraph 3: Walt is growing to respect and care for Thao
 Describe Walt’s growing love and respect for Thao
o Cite a scene which shows this (e.g. Walt gives Thao his Medal of Honour >
Extreme close-up of medal on Thao’s shirt after shooting)
o Explain how this scene shows this
Paragraph 4: Walt makes the ultimate sacrifice for Thao
 Describe what Walt does for Thao and why
 Explain what this shows about the bond between them
 Explain why Walt gives Thao his Gran Torino
o What does this gesture tell us? What is Walt’s message to Thao?
o How does this scene show us how their relationship has ultimately changed?
Conclusion: Sum up how the director has shown the rowing relationship between Walt and
Thao, summarise your main points and round-off the essay