MILK: The Review

With all latest uproar over Prop 8, it’s nice that we get to see a film that ties the past to the present. I’m referring to my previously posted about sneak preview of Gus Van Sant's new film Milk, about the life and career of gay political activist Harvey Milk.

The film, starring Academy Award winner Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, James Franco, Emile Hirsch, & Diego Luna was a honest, unsugared, no holds barred portrait of Milk's rise from gay hippie to first openly gay individual to hold a public office.

Van Sant captures the time and the feel of the late 70's pre-AIDS era. It was also great to have the majority of the film take place during the tumultuous time when this country was trying to pass Prob. 6, that banned homosexual discrimination in the work place.

Sean Penn is an absolute revelation as the controversial Milk. He plays Milk as he was a imperfect man in an imperfect world trying to make a difference. This is truly a departure for Penn, who’s usually best known for playing the guy from the wrong side of the law.

It’s a safe bet to say Penn is on course for his fifth Oscar nomination. It’s too early in the game to say if he’ll grab the gold or not. Besides to defer for a moment to amend Robert Downey Jr.’s rant on the mentally handicapped in Tropic Thunder, Hollywood doesn’t award the prize to actor going the "full gay." They like their gays not to have an intimate sex life.

Penn is surrounded by a great group of supporting players, most notably James Franco as his lover & first business partner, Scott Smith. Franco can add this portrayal to his long list of versatile performances. He bring warmth & depth, but also frustration to Smith, as he tries to keep up with Milk’s tenacity in his pursuit to become the first gay seated supervisor of California.

I also liked seeing Lucas Grabeel (Ryan in the High School Musical francise) stretch his rep with his appearence as Milk supporter Danny Nicoletta. Although the screenplay could of giving more to do that just prance around at rallies looking cut in his tight T-shirts. Especially since during the credits they include Nicoletta in the "Where are they now" montage.

Van Sant’s direction is flawless in capturing the feel and look of the mid to late 70's. Props also go out for the look of film to the art director Charley Beal and cinematography by Harris Savides.

After seeing Milk, it reignited my purpose as the tag line says, "To Never Blend In." I advise everyone to see this film, you never know it may convert you in your thinking.