Try Milk.

Rating: 9/10 (27 December 2015)

Milk (2008): Dir: Gus Van Sant / Cast: Sean Penn, James Franco, Emile Hirsch, Josh Brolin, Alison Pill: Political drama that chronicles the life of Harvey Milk who was the first openly gay individual to run for political power. Set in the 1970's where homosexuality is persecuted until Milk decides to speak on behalf of the gay community. Insightful film directed by Gus Van Sant with great visual appeal. Sant's career has been low brow in recent years but many recall his work in Good Will Hunting and To Die For among his best. Flawed only with stereotypical portrayal of homosexuals and very limited insight on lesbianism. Perhaps if the film conveyed homosexuals as virtually anyone then this stereotype would be avoided. Sean Penn is tremendous as Milk whose good cheer conceals the resentment of those whom do not share his views including gay activist Anita Bryant. Penn's powerful performance is backed with strong supporting work from James Franco as his younger lover whom he drifts away from when campaigning becomes too dominant. Emile Hirsch is featured as well as Josh Brolin who presents opposition in a much more fatal manner. Alison Pill is featured amongst the few females seen in the film. She works alongside Harvey in his campaign. It is a provocative film that showcases the hardship of gay rights placing it alongside racism. Score: 9 / 10