Almost Famous - almost a rockumentary! (Almost Famous (DVD))

Member Name: Neenawneenaw

Product:	Almost Famous (DVD)
Date:	03/12/08 (6 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great cast, flawed characters you care about, funny stuff

Disadvantages: The pace gets a little slow occasionally

Almost Famous follows an under-age wannabe rock reporter following mediocre US band Stillwater as they tour the country, trying to write a feature article for Rolling Stone magazine (who he's somehow managed to convince over the phone that he's a fully fledged adult).

We see the band rivalries, notably between nominal lead singer (the fabulous Justin Lee) and the more charismatic guitarist (Billy Crudup) who always outshines him. There are complications from the groupies, or 'band aids' in tow - Kate Hudson plays 'Penny Lane' in the best performance of her career: she's having an affair with the married Crudup, the young journalist is totally smitten with her. On the way an incompetent manager(Noah Taylor) , rock journo mentor (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and overprotective mother (the ever-excellent Frances Mc Dormand) all add their bit.

I won't spoil the end but there are laughs and tears along the way - love, betrayal and a genuine fondness for the characters in this very funny film.

Summary: Ultimately heart-warming story of love, growing up and rock 'n' roll