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Gus Van Sant's, "Milk," is the year's

71.34.243.241

best film.
Sean Penn gives a remarkably powerful, understated, nuanced performance as the tragic gay politician, the first openly so one ever elected in this land of the free.
Emile Hirsch, who starred in Penn's, "Into the Wild," is all but unrecognizable here and is one of a collection of very good character/ supporting actors.
This is a fascinating look at the emotional and physical courage which it takes to become a leading political figure who stands for great change in a controversial cause. The film is not a great film because of its writing, cinematography, editing, or obvious other technical graces: it is the masterful performance from Penn which carries all before it. What could have been a syrupy sentimental vehicle for a 2-hour long lecture on gay rights instead is a case study in how a small group of determined, stubborn, and clever individuals can change the way a nation views a central issue.
One bonus: it truly is amazing how much Sarah Palin channels Anita Bryant. Truly remarkable messages, delivery, appearance.

Follow Ups:

A tremendous film, Gus Van Sant took an interesting story and turned - musetap 17:33:24 12/22/08 (0)
it into a VERY compelling film and tale. Well paced with Penn as good as he gets (which is... great).
Not only is the script tight and all the supporting roles marvelously played, but the integration of vintage footage into the fold is very successful, as is Danny Elfman's understated score.
My wife and I were hesitant about how this film might "work", having been in SF (but not yet together) during and throughout the whole scene and having vivid, emotional memories of these very real events. We walked to the Castro Theater today to (finally) see "Milk", and therefore it was more than a bit surreal in the whole process of viewing and experiencing this film.
We both felt the film a success on every level, capturing the energy of the time and showing the drive, passion and commitment of Milk (and his associates) to a great and neccesary cause.
"What could have been a syrupy sentimental vehicle for a 2-hour long lecture on gay rights instead is a case study in how a small group of determined, stubborn, and clever individuals can change the way a nation views a central issue." Perfectly sums it up Tinear.
Leaving the theater, there was a table outside set up to gather contributions and support for the repeal of Proposition 8.
The movement continues.
Edit: The 1:00 showing was a full house. The audience immediately hissed when Anita Bryant
was shown.

"...You're all welcome to stay for the next set...we're going to play all the same tunes, but in different keys..." -Count Basie
- The Castro Theatre (Open in New Window)
Edits: 12/22/08
No, it's not... - tunenut 15:01:54 12/22/08 (2)
it's a very well done biopic. Sean Penn deserves his accolades. I enjoyed it.

But I've seen movies I liked far better this year. My absolute favorite was Stranded, a documentary.

I realize few people see documentaries. I realize these don't get nominated for Best Picture Oscar.

I talked for hours about the events depicted in this movie. I've spent many other hours thinking about it. It stayed with me. This was clearly the movie that meant the most to me personally this year.

And since then, I've seen it on TV. It loses much of the impact on TV. It should be seen in a theater.
- You talking about: 'Stranded: I've Come from a Plane That Crashed on the Mountains'? - Tony D. 21:39:25 12/23/08 (1)
  If so then yes, it really put the hook in me and the two folk I saw the film with. It still comes up at times these months later.
  
  Have you seen 'The Bridge' ? Another documentary that stung me.
  
  Just going out for a walk carried significance and made for thoughtful reflection after having seen it.
  
  J.B.
  - Yes that is the one... - tunenut 21:53:20 12/23/08 (0)
    have not seen The Bridge, but hope to soon.
With the decline of Deniro into Paycheck World, Penn may - powermatic 21:36:49 12/21/08 (0)
prove to be the American film actor of true substance.

His Harvey Milk is as astonishing a portrayal as was Deniro's Jake Lamotta.

"Dammit..."
looking forward to it opening here. - dave c 18:58:54 12/21/08 (0)
I don't think it has shown anywhere in Australia yet.
It might be a Boxing Day opener... I do intend to see it as soon as it is on.

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