Milk

Sean Penn doesn't really need to do anything else to distinguish himself as an actor, but it looks like he is still pushing himself to greater heights. Milk is a movie that showcases not only the talents of Penn, who puts in an award-winning performance, but that of the cast and crew, making this movie a delight to watch.

The Gay Rights Movement

Based on a true story, Milk doesn't pretend to be anything but an honest film about human rights. Harvey Milk (Sean Penn) is an insurance agent who moves to San Francisco with his lover Scott (James Franco) to start a new life on Castro Street, and their camera shop becomes the center of the gay community in San Francisco in the few years after it opens. Harvey becomes more and more involved in the gay rights movement, and repeatedly runs for city supervisor in his efforts to better the lives of the people around him. The story is a true one, and sad, and shows a group's struggle for equality in the face of overwhelming odds and broad discrimination.

Acting the Part

Sean Penn is incredible as Harvey Milk, but his amazing performance is not lost amid mediocre acting, as James Franco pulls his weight in this film. I was impressed by the portrayal of their relationship, which comes across as sincere and real, and the first 30 minutes of the movie play out as a love story. Harvey and Scott get their store, are clearly madly in love, and build a strong group of friends in their new home. The mix of black-and-white photos of Penn and Franco with archive footage from the 1970's gives the story a realistic feel, and the supporting characters are excellent. Josh Brolin is perfect as the troubled Dan White, Emile Hirsch is terrific as the activist Cleve Jones, and Diego Luna plays a very funny off-the-wall Jack Lira. Throw Victor Gerber in there as the mayor of San Francisco, and you have a cast that will elevate any movie.

The Final Word

I loved this movie. The cast was amazing, the story was strong, and the direction was top-notch. It is definitely not an action movie, and some material is not suitable for children, but it has its comedic moments, and you'll love it if you're in the market for a solid drama.

Definitely see Milk.

Rating: 9.0/10.0