Almost Untitled: Almost Famous Film Review

By Emily Eade

Almost Famous, the film that changed my whole life. It was a well thought out film about the story of Rock journalist-turned-filmmaker, Cameron Crowe, writing for Rolling Stone magazine with a twist, written and directed by Cameron Crowe himself and released September of 2001. Showing his own story in the eyes of an uncool 15 year old kid, William Miller (Patrick Fugit) feeling accepted for who he is, falls in love with Band Aid, Penny Lane (Kate Hudson) and becomes friends with guitar player from band Stillwater, Russell Hammond (Billy Crudup).

The love letter to rock film, Almost Famous, is about William Miller growing up with his sister, Anita (Zooey Deschanel) under his mothers, Elaine (Frances McDormand) roof with very stern rules. Ultimately that causes Anita to leave home and give William her vinyl collection and because of this William finds himself and falls in love with music. His love for music and writing causes William to go and pester Creem magazine rock critic Lester Bangs (Philip Seymour Hoffman) to pursue his dream to be a rock critic. Lester gives William the chance to cover Black Sabbath concert. At this concert he meets the wonderful, mysterious Band Aid, Penny Lane and the band Stillwater, which was loosely based on rock bands Led Zeppelin, Allman Brothers Band and Yes -That’s why you hear songs from all three bands throughout the film-. From Williams' experience with Creem magazine he manages to get assigned by Rolling Stone magazine to do a profile of Stillwater. Little did he know at 15 years old this whole experience would change his life drastically. During the tour you get to see the creation of William Miller and the friendships he creates along the way. (“I need to get home” -William, “You’re already home.” -Penny). 

This story was created to show how life was at being 15 and going on tour with some of the most famous bands of all time. The film showed how the real world has some happy moments, sad moments, and scary moments that all viewers could really grab onto and connect with. It also gave a different point of view of how it is being a band on tour. This expressed that going on tour with a band is not always fun and games, they have hard times too. 

This film has absolutely stunning cinematography, editing, acting and soundtrack. The cinematography and editing showed a perfect contrast of colors, lights and a grainy look to make it feel like this film was actually created in the 70s. The soundtrack of the film was absolutely beautiful. It caused the film to blend together and show true love, chemistry and life. Having songs from ‘River’ by Joni Mitchell to ‘Tiny Dancer’ by Elton John. The acting showed true chemistry between the actors and characters. 

I suggest this film to anyone and everyone I have the pleasure to meet. This film gave me life in a time where I needed it. I was just starting middle school when I first saw it and knew exactly that I wanted to be just like William Miller. Since that day I've been saying I’m going to be a music journalist. Go and see the film ‘Almost Famous’, see one of the most inspiring stories ever in my opinion and fall in love with each character as if they are your best friend. Like they say “It’s all happening...:”