Cidadão Penn

As far as documentaries go it was okish not good not bad but watchable. To be honest I did feel the filming was just a vehicle to show Penn being anything other than just a successful Hollywood star who was simply content with being just that.

Although he rolled up his sleeves and got stuck in I couldn't help but wonder why did he request the guy filming to keep the camera pointed at the matter in hand and not at him Sean Penn.

Yet this documentary is basically 50% Sean Penn complete with the obligatory cigarette to which several packets must of been emptied.

So its a middling 5/10 and do I want to watch it again errm.. no thankyou!

Actor Sean Penn was often characterized and stereotyped by early-career exploits of consistently making news headlines for punching cameramen, his political viewpoints, and marrying the world's most recognizable pop star of the time, Madonna. As Director Don Hardy, sometimes eloquently and sometimes pragmatically, reveals in CITIZEN PENN Sean Penn has diligently changed his image through extensive efforts to aid assistance to his fellow 'man' in war-torn, disaster laden, disaffected countries beginning in 2002 with the war in Iraq right up to the current COVID-19-infected United States

One always wonders if a celebrity's motivation is good works or publicity. I give Penn credit. I don't think it is all ego. He is a parent and concerned about the world and its future. Regardless of his true motivations, he has helped bring attention to important issues. Sometimes that takes a millionaire.

No mention of his Buick Grand National, with one of the last big American V8s that was stolen along with his two guns inside. I guess environmentally friendly cars and gun control are limited to us common folk.

"Citizen Penn" is a captivating documentary that not only sheds light on Sean Penn's personal journey but also highlights his remarkable humanitarian efforts in the wake of the 2010 Haiti earthquake. The film offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at Penn's life, blending his public persona with his private passions, particularly his tireless work in helping the Haitian people rebuild their lives.

What sets this documentary apart is its authenticity and unflinching honesty. Penn's work in Haiti is portrayed with depth and nuance, showing both the challenges and triumphs of his mission. The film is not just about the man himself, but also about the larger, often unrecognized efforts of those who dedicate their lives to social change in the face of immense adversity.

The documentary's strength lies in its exploration of what it means to use celebrity for a cause. Penn's decision to place himself in harm's way to aid those in need is both inspiring and humbling. Through powerful interviews and vivid footage of the devastation in Haiti, "Citizen Penn" paints a portrait of a man who, despite his fame, remains deeply connected to the world around him and committed to making a difference.

"Citizen Penn" is a must-watch for anyone interested in social justice, humanitarian work, or the complexities of celebrity activism. It's a heartfelt and inspiring film that shows how one person can truly make a difference, and how profound personal conviction can shape the world for the better. This is not just a documentary about a star-it's a testament to the power of empathy, determination, and the human spirit.

This is a fine documentary showing what it takes to be committed to a cause. Sean Penn discarded his celebrity status; unless it was to fund raise; which is totally acceptable; and did a great degree of the heavy lifting in applying much needed assistance to the impoverished and disaster ridden people of Haiti. Bravo Mr. Penn.