The Times of Harvey Milk Review- By Michael Carlisle

Title: The Times of Harvey Milk
Year: 1984
Director: Rob Epstein
Country: US
Language: English

Films with homosexual themes have always graced the screen, whether overt or subliminal. Even in the classic Bonnie and Clyde (1967) it is hinted that Clyde Barrow bats for the other team. Throughout history the LGBT community has been a controversial topic, though it is gaining more acceptance as time goes by. A great pioneer in this community is the enigmatic Harvey Dent; a man who spent his life seeking equality within his society.

The film documents member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Harvey Milk and San Francisco Mayor George Moscone, who were assassinated by Supervisor Dan White on November 27, 1978. Milk's life leading up to his election, his successful efforts to politically represent San Francisco's gay community, and the city's reaction to the assassinations are documented with  news footage and personal recollections.

A lot has changed since the 80's in regards to society's treatment towards homosexuality. Many people are unafraid of "coming out", AIDS is no longer a death sentence or a "gay disease", gay marriage is becoming legalized in more and more places and it is becoming less acceptable to ostracize somebody due to their sexuality. However to get to this point in time, a lot of people had to suffer and stand up for what is right. The Times of Harvey Milk paints Harvey Milk as a martyr for his cause and in many ways he is exactly that. Murdered before he could see the full extent of his influence, the film perfectly captures the triumphs and tragedy of this man's life.

Mainly constructed by news footage and personal recollections, Epstein gives us a great idea about the many tensions and moods surrounding the gay plight in 1980's America.  It gives us a heightened sense of revolution and injustice and will definitely encourage the viewer to help their fellow man. Unfortunately the film is very bias, it assumes one viewpoint and goes with it. We see Milk as a perfect being, but not much else. Supporters of Harvey Milk are interviewed extensively, but not his opposition or bystanders.

In conclusion, The Times of Harvey Milk is an incredibly absorbing film. It makes a monumental decade even more interesting. While the 80's wasn't the most intriguing decade, at least in comparison to the 70's and 60's, the film will definitely make it more exciting. Epstein made a very important film that should not be forgotten. Praise it! 4/5