Citizen Penn from Don Hardy Over the years, Sean Penn has been criticized for his political and high-profile charitable efforts. Director Don Hardy looks to change minds about the actor in his documentary Citizen Penn for Discovery+. The Academy Award winner Sean Penn never wants the spotlight, but knows he can shift the spotlight to important causes. With his Oscar win in Milk, he made his speech in regards to homosexual rights. During Hurricane Katrina aftermath, he ventured to New Orleans to assist the evacuation of the flooded neighborhoods. It became a striking image of Penn towing a skiff through the waters.