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The Times of Harvey Milk

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 12, age appropriate for kids over 14; suggested age 14.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Thought-provoking look at a charismatic politician’s life.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 14 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    No matter your beliefs, this is a powerful portrayal of civic engagement.
  • Role models:

    Milk exhibits tenacity, compassion, and patience. White is motivated by mental instability and intolerance.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Harvey Milk is assassinated. News footage shows cops running though City Hall and ambulances wailing. Some rioting after his death. Nothing gory but certainly upsetting.
  • Sex:

    Some kissing. Shirtless men dancing in the streets of San Francisco.
  • Language:

    Occasional swearing, including “asshole” and “f--k.” An interview subject uses the word “fruit” to describe Milk.
  • Consumerism:

    Signage in Castro district shops, including Harvey Milk’s camera shop. Mention of Coors beer in the context of a beverage boycott. Logos for TV channels.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Times of Harvey Milk

Parents need to know that this documentary provides an unvarnished examination of a despicable act: the assassination of gay San Francisco politician Harvey Milk. Though the crime itself isn’t shown, the buildup to it and the aftermath could be upsetting for viewers under 12.  Teens and adults will find it a thought-provoking piece of history.

Read our full review by InternLogin

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Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about what audiences know about Milk’s legacy and how this film helps inform. How helpful is the film in disseminating more information about Milk and the circumstances surrounding his death?
  • Families can also discuss stereotypes, the gay rights movement, and Milk’s place in it. How did he bring about lasting change? What would he think about the gay rights movement today?

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