Some actors are so lauded and looked at it’s difficult for them to disappear into a role: Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Cruise, George Clooney—you never quite forget their star status, no matter whom they’re playing. When Sean Penn actually becomes Harvey Milk, California’s first openly gay elected official, it is the ultimate accomplishment. Not only does he transcend his own persona, he transcends his own gender; Milk is an attractive, engaging, vulnerable and sympathetic human, regardless of whether he is male or female, gay or straight.

And such talent is imperative for this very important and moving film, just as consummately engaging African American and female actors are imperative for films about black and/or women’s rights. We feel Harvey’s pain and loneliness as he moves into San Francisco’s Castro District and experiences violent discrimination. We feel his frustration as he loses campaign after campaign, as well as his beloved companion (James Franco). We feel energized by his compelling campaign speeches that go beyond local elections and address equal rights issues that have global significance. As Milk fights against Proposition 6 in the 70’s, which would have removed gay teachers and those who support them from California schools, viewers can’t help but be reminded of last election’s fight against Proposition 8, which rescinded the rights of gay couples to marry in California. Although the Milk story takes place three decades ago, it is eerily current.

Penn is not alone in his outstanding performance. Franco, Emile Hirsch as an enlightened gay activist, Diego Luna as Milk’s most flamboyant companion, Victor Garber as Mayor George Moscone who supported San Francisco City Supervisor Milk and was assassinated right along with him, and Josh Brolin as Dan White, who pulled the trigger, are all superb. Director Gus Van Sant has done an exceptional job of telling an intriguing, important story without being didactic, heavy handed or tedious. This is a film everyone should see, although, unfortunately, the ones who would benefit most from it will avoid it.

Rated R

Lisa Johnson Mandell