Clint Eastwood has said that his performance in Gran Torino is most likely the last time he will step in front of the camera, which is a sad prospect to accept.

Even at the ripe old age of 78, Eastwood still knows how to direct and act in amazing films. Gran Torino is no exception, and you owe it to yourself to see the man in what maybe his last acting performance ever.

Eastwood plays Walt Kowalski, a tired old grumpy racist widower. When the house next door is suddenly occupied by Hmong neighbours, Kowalski eventually gets to see them as more than just a negative reminder of his World War II past. He is then forced to question his own values on what's important. Before long Kowalski's 'vigilante' approach to keeping the neighbourhood safe has made him a reluctant hero. When the gang violence starts to get worse, Kowalski takes matters into his own hands for an unexpected climax.

If the way I described the Walt Kowalski character sounds familiar, it should. Because one of Eastwood's most memorable characters was also a tired old grumpy racist widower - I'm of course talking about Dirty Harry. And Eastwood plays the role almost exactly like he was channeling Dirty Harry, with the piercing glare that when engaged for too long can cause death, and his constant snarling at the little things that annoy.

Eastwood has covered a wide range of emotions for the audience. You will get worked up, feel his pain and share in his occasional humour. And you will be on the edge of your seat when he wants you there. Just put your political correctness hat out of sight.

Gran Torina is masterful, acted by a master and directed by a master. Some of the other 'masters' of cinema could learn a thing or two from Clint.