For a long time, Sean Penn's successful Hollywood career was overshadowed by the fact that he was better known to the press as 'Mr. Madonna', having been married to the pop megastar for the second half of the 1980s. After that, he was married to Robin Wright, best known for her portrayal of Claire Underwood in 'House of Cards.' Perception of him changed after his incredible and moving role in 'Milk' in 2008.
'Milk' is a biopic of Harvey Milk, the real-life politician who became the first openly gay man to be elected to office in California during the 1970s. It's a powerful and unique film, and a fitting tribute to a unique and inspiring man; a man whom Penn brought to life on screen with skill and sincerity. It serves not only as an excellent drama, but a candid insight into what life was like for gay people in the San Francisco of the time. Unsurprisingly, it brought Penn an Oscar.