"Almost Famous" ( Directed by Cameron Crowe, 2000)

EditCameron Crowe's 2000 hit movie "Almost Famous" displays the story of a young high-school boy who receives the opportunity to write for Rolling Stone Magazine while touring with the up and coming rockback, Stillwater. The film features Kate Hudson, Billy Crudup, and Patrick Fugit. Rock n' Roll maybe the only way to describe this film of teenage angst and self discovery. Throughout the fill William Miller (Fugit) attempts to interview band leader Russell Hammond to complete his story for the Rolling Stone. "Almost Famous" portrays the critic as someone who should "Experience it. Enjoy it. Just don't fall for it." In other words a critic should never get to personal with the artist of the work he is reviewing.

Throughout the film Jeff Bebe (Jason Lee) gives the bulk of Stillwater's interview, ironically though he also remains the most suspicious of Miller. An art critic has the ability to make or break the reputation of a band which is why Bebe may have been on his guard. By touring with the band Miller was able to receive an inside scoop on the band a normal fan would never receive. Typically people listen to the music and go to the concerts but they never actually become friends with the artists. This gives them the ability to ruthlessly take apart and criticize the piece of art. Within "Almost Famous" Miller is faced with the difficult decision to give the world the honest truth on Stillwater or to glorify the band and write what they would want him to write about the band. In the end he chooses to write the truth which is what every critic should do.

Throughout the movie Lester Bangs acts as a mentor to Miller giving him tips on the Rock n' Roll world. He advises Miller not to become too close of friends with the band because it only makes it that much more difficult to write the truth.

The film also gives incite on the life of a "Bandaid" also known as groupies. Kate Hudson plays Penny Lane a Bandaid who has a relationship with Russell, the leader guitarist of Stillwater. Their relationship has to remain somewhat of a seceret because Russel has a girlfriend back home. It touches on the troubles that come with fame, while portraying the story of growing up and being a teenager.

Sex, drugs, and Rock n' Roll or rock criticism is what this movie gives you. With a classic soundtrack featuring The Who, Black Sabbath, and Led Zeppelin. This movie will remind you of the glory days of Rock n' Roll.