Almost Famous (2000) Cert 15.

Director - Cameron Crowe.

Writer - Cameron Crowe.

Starring - Patrick Fugit, Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson & Phillip Seymour Hoffman.

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Premise - A semi autobiographical tale of a young boys break into the world of music journalism in the 70's whilst touring with the fictional band Stillwater.

I love this movie, it grabbed me from the first second and dragged me through an emotional roller coaster and spat me out after two hours. Everything about this movie screams quality, the casting, the acting, the script, the soundtrack, the direction all fantastic.

Now I was not around in the 70's (well not old enough to remember them anyway), so I can't be sure if this is an accurate representation of the times. But since Crowe was there and wrote pieces on some of the time's biggest artists I think it must be fairly spot on. Even though I can't remember the 70's I have a great affinity for the time Almost Famous and 'Dazed and Confused' are among my favourite movies I also liked 'Detroit Rock City'.

The casting for this movie could not have been better, Fugit is a revelation as William Miller, The 15 year old who has been held back in a protective atmosphere by his mother (Frances McDormand). He is even more impressive when you consider that this is his first major role and he is hardly off screen for the films two hours. This is his movie and he performs admirably. Also good are Kate Hudson as a 'Band-aid' and Billy Crudup as Stillwater's lead guitarist. Phillip Seymour Hoffman again proves why he is currently films best character actor with a delicious turn as hackneyed rock journalist Lester Bangs.

The script by Crowe is tight and since this is a semi autobiographical tale you can tell that the subject is very close to his heart. A good use of humour throughout the movie stops it from becoming too syrupy during the emotional scenes. Crowe's direction is also good at times you really feel like your watching some event in his life through his eyes.

I love this movie as I have already said and I could watch it again and again. Hey, if a film can make an Elton John song sound good then it's got be worth a look, right?

9/10 for Almost Famous.

Poster quote - The 70's never looked so good.