Watch The Times of Harvey Milk

The Times of Harvey Milk is a 1984 documentary that explores the life and legacy of Harvey Milk, a prominent gay rights activist and the first openly gay elected official in California. The film chronicles Milk's rise to power in San Francisco and his eventual assassination, shedding light on the political and social landscape of the era.

At the heart of the film is Milk's inspiring story. Born in New York City in 1930, Milk moved to San Francisco in the 1970s and quickly became involved in the city's gay rights movement. With a flair for organizing and public speaking, Milk soon emerged as a leader in the community, putting forth a message of hope and empowerment for LGBTQ individuals.

The documentary also delves into the struggle for gay rights in San Francisco during the 1970s, a time marked by police brutality, discrimination, and violence against the LGBTQ community. Through interviews with Milk's friends, colleagues, and supporters, as well as archival footage and news clips, the film paints a vivid picture of the social and political climate of the time.

One of the most powerful themes in The Times of Harvey Milk is the importance of political activism and community organizing. As Milk rose to power, he brought a diverse array of people and groups together, uniting them under the banner of gay rights. His message resonated with people of all backgrounds, and he quickly became a symbol of hope for thousands of LGBTQ individuals who had been marginalized and oppressed for far too long.

But Milk's rise to power was not without its challenges. The film also explores the political opposition that Milk faced, both in San Francisco and beyond. As he became more successful and influential, he also became a target for those who disagreed with his message and his lifestyle. The film touches on some of the more violent and hateful aspects of the anti-gay movement, underscoring the importance of Milk's work and the progress that has been made in the years since his death.

Overall, The Times of Harvey Milk is a moving and powerful account of one of the most important figures in LGBTQ history. Through its sensitive portrayal of Milk's life and legacy, the film offers a glimpse into the struggle for gay rights during the 1970s and 80s, while also highlighting the enduring relevance of Milk's message of hope, unity, and equality.

The Times of Harvey Milk is a 1983 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.2.