11/10 A True Masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (13 November 2015)

I don't usually write reviews but... this film has me speechless. I hadn't heard of Harvey Milk until I was made to do a speech on him in English class. So fortunate to get to read his story, I started to look into what else was written and filmed about him. When I found this movie, I didn't expect a whole lot, although I knew that the actors in it were well known and acclaimed. I can honestly say that this is one of the most spectacular films I have ever watched.
Sean Penn delivers an unforgettable performance with such close resemblance to the actual Harvey Milk. He perfects his nuances and makes himself a lovable and powerful character. The way that Milk is able to make light of dark situations enhances the mood and gives the audience hope,and Penn did a fantastic job transforming himself and living his role. By far, this is his best film and he has definitely earned the Oscar he won.
James Franco, Josh Brolin, Emile Hirsch, Diego Luna, and the rest of the cast are perfectly chosen for their roles, and their acting is believable and realistic. They all enhance Penn's role, and highlight how important Milk was to the entire gay community and the minorities. They also show how selfless and determined he was in the face of such hate and discrimination, and how he was willing to put himself out there for other people. Truly an amazing human being.
Gus Van Sant brings another amazing piece to the table, and incredibly weaves this film together. It is an incredibly powerful work of art that most definitely will leave you in tears.
I truly believe that every person should watch this film, gay or straight, because it leaves an impact so great that may really change the way you think about the world and the people in it. The love scenes between Sean Penn and James Franco, and some other ones later on between other characters, are so perfectly played out where the audience will not feel uncomfortable, but instead see that it is not just two men kissing, but it is two HUMAN BEINGS in love.
This film has had a major impact on me, and that is the most amazing type of film. It has left me with hope for the minorities who are feeling discriminated against, and it truly proves that ANYBODY can change the world. With the hate and challenges that Harvey faced, including people such as Anita Bryant, he persevered and stood up to what he believed in. He is perhaps the most inspiring public figure to me, and he has definitely made me a better person today. This film teaches people to fight for what's right, and that we are all human beings, no matter race, gender, or preference. So whoever you are out there reading this, WATCH IT and I know that you will not be disappointed.