Penn is sumptuous in his extraordinary embodiment of Harvey Milk, however the film falls short of greatness...

Rating: 7/10 (23 January 2009)

Milk (2008)
I have wanted to see 'Milk' a film about the first openly gay person to be elected in public office in the United States of America in the late 1970s. A film about the struggle of homosexuals for equal and full civil recognition under the law but as well as by the people. It is easy to forget that amongst other things that America suffered to deal with (African-Americans, Communists, Asian-Americans, Native-Americans, Hispanic Americans and many other groups/minorities etc) in the concept of Civil Rights, homosexuality was one of the most eminent ones from the 1970s onwards. Of course homophobia and hatred towards the gay community has been widespread around the world. This film is about the story of Harvey Milk, a real life figure, who was assassinated in 1978, who battled for equality for homosexuals.
Nominated for 8 Academy Awards including Best Picture, Director and Actor, 'Milk' seemed an attractive prospect. However the film, although poignant at times, it fails to empower or fully entertain the audience. Gus Van Sant's film is no masterpiece. It is a solid film though.
However Sean Penn's performance is flawless - Another masterful performance by one of modern Cinema's most charismatic actors. Penn is a serious contender for the Best Actor Oscar, although I have a feeling it will be awarded to Mickey Rourke for his performance in 'The Wrestler' - Any of the two will be richly deserved.
Not a worthy Best Picture nominee, however an interesting film about the controversial aspect of homosexuality in modern society.
7/10