Sean Penn drops in on otherwise apolitical Oscars

Let’s face it: None of the makers of “Slumdog Millionaire,” which just won Best Picture at the Academy Awards, were likely to dig in to U.S. policy toward India during their acceptance speeches. But if you were waiting for a dash of the political, fear not, because Sean Penn won Best Actor for his portrayal of San Francisco Supervisor Harvey Milk.

And he kicked off his speech by thanking “you commie, homo-loving sons of guns.” Then, in a conciliatory gesture toward his Hollywood peers in regard to his headline-making political activism, he added, “I do know how hard I make it to appreciate me often.”

Penn wrapped up his speech with two things: First, he advised those who voted against gay marriage (California’s Proposition 8 last November) “to sit and reflect on their great shame.” He then gave a nod toward President Obama, saying “I’m very proud to live in a country that is willing to elect an elegant man as its president.”

Penn finished by giving a shout out to his pal and fellow nominee Mickey Rourke. Now, “The Wrestler” nominee has gotten political lately, too — but not exactly in line with Penn’s political leanings.