Got Milk?

Sorry, I realize how lame that was. But I still had to.

Richie and I had the distinct pleasure of seeing Milk on Saturday. I have had a feeling ever since awards predictions started appearing that Milk would be my favorite movie of the year. I'll start of this review by saying that nothing I saw Saturday disparaged that feeling in the least.

Sean Penn is triumphant as Harvey Milk, leading thousands of freedom-seeking people through the streets of San Francisco, first to a safe haven in their own neighborhood and then to be a political force to be reckoned with. He's endearing, telling his lover that a pasta dinner is the best meal he's ever had or shouting, "Hey, I like the way those jeans fit!" at a kid (Emile Hirsch) walking by his campaign table. And he is tragic, breaking your heart along with his when his lover, Scott, leaves him and again when he is killed by a political rival.

The supporting actors were eloquently cast. Emile Hirsch deserves a mention, who has shown himself to be one of the most versatile young actors around. James Franco has drawn attention (deservedly) for this role and also for his part in Pineapple Express. And, as I'm a sucker for anything out of Latin America, it was awesome to see Diego Luna in a high-profile English-language film, stealing the scenes he was in.

What makes this film even more amazing is that Van Sant makes it a complete package, with some of the most creative shots I've seen in a drama piece. Remember when M. Night Shyamalan did that shot in Signs (shut up.) where you saw the alien first in the TV reflection? Van Sant recycles and improves the effect by using it for dramatic juxtaposition. And that's just one example. The film is a technical masterpiece.

It looks like Milk could be a strong contender in several categories - hopefully Best Pic, best actor, best supporting actor (kind of a dude-heavy movie), definitely cinematography, perhaps editing or screenplay? Lots of possibilities.