Watch Almost Famous

Precocious young William (played by Patrick Fugit) is only in high school when he gets an opportunity to go on tour with an up-and-coming band in order to write an article about them for none other than Rolling Stone magazine. To somebody who loves music and the written word like William does, it is an offer too good to pass up, and he doesn’t, much to the consternation of his protective mother (Frances McDormand). The band, which calls itself Stillwater, is enjoying growing popularity but is also burdened with a less-than-friendly rivalry between front man Jeff Bebe (Jason Lee) and lead guitarist Russell Hammond (Billy Crudup).

Like many rock and roll bands, Stillwater has groupies; theirs cleverly call themselves band-aids. Almost as famous as the band itself is the de facto leader of the band-aids, Penny Lane (Kate Hudson). While on tour, Penny and the married Russell are sexually involved, and it is clear that the somewhat naive Penny believes he has genuine affection for her, though it is clear to William, who does care for her, that Russell is just using her. While the picture that this movie paints of the rock and roll scene is romanticized at times, at others it is unflinchingly realistic. Eventually Russell’s wife meets up with the band and Penny, the band’s biggest fan, is unceremoniously cast aside. It ultimately rests with William to help the devastated Penny pick up the broken pieces and move on.