Almost Famous is the movie Cameron Crowe has been waiting a lifetime to tell. The fictionalization of Crowe's days as a teenage reporter for Creem and Rolling Stone has all the well-written characters and wonderful "movie moments" that we expect from Crowe (Jerry Maguire), but the film has an intangible something extra--an insider's touch that will turn the film into the ode to '70s rock & roll for years to come. We are introduced to Crowe's alter ego, William Miller (Patrick Fugit), at home, where his progressive mom (Frances McDormand, just superb) has outlawed rock music and sister Anita (Zooey Deschanel) has slipped him LPs that will "set his mind free." Following the wisdom of Creem's disheveled editor, Lester Bangs (Philip Seymour Hoffman in an instant-classic performance), Miller gets on the inside with the up-and-coming band Stillwater (a fictionalized mixture of the Allman Brothers, Led Zeppelin, and others). A simple visit with the band turns into a three-week, life-altering odyssey into the heyday of American rock. Of the characters he meets on the road, the two most important are groupie extraordinaire Penny Lane (Kate Hudson in a star-making performance) and Stillwater's enigmatic lead guitarist (Billy Crudup), who keeps stringing Miller along for an interview. From the handwritten credits (done by Crowe) to the bittersweet finale, Crowe's comedic valentine is an indelible, heartbreaking romance of music, women, and the privilege of youth. --Doug Thomas

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I've decided to review the Bootleg Cut of "Almost Famous" as most of the other reviews are of the original theatrical release.

This is a wonderful two-disc ( actually 3, more on this later ) DVD collection.

First, the packaging. We are presented with a brown tri-fold package, much like the bootleg recordings of the seventies. Not a whole lot of artwork on the cover. Simply a small photo of Kate Hudson (Penny Lane).

The first tri-fold presents us with a wonderful addition to this DVD set. Included is a STILLWATER Music CD. This music CD is only available in this collection and features songs from the film as performed by Stillwater. Four of the tracks are co written by Nancy Wilson ( of Heart ) and Cameron Crowe ( the director ). This little bonus CD is great and very appropriate to the theme of the set.

I'll jump now to DISC 2 of this set which is the Original Theatrical Version of "Almost Famous". This is the academy award winning version that was released and it's great. The story is well told and very engaging.

DISC 1 is "Untitled: Almost Famous : The Bootleg Cut" which is not rated.

This version is a gift.

Cameron Crowe has taken the time to ( lovingly ) recut his film and include an additional 36 minutes of film. The addition of these precious minutes change the film but do not deminish it's impact or watchability.

The additional 36 minutes add mostly to the character of Penny Lane ( Academy Award Nominee Kate Hudson ) and expand on her history.

Unlike many extended versions which add little to character development, this version of "Almost Famous" brings more insight and depth to nearly all characters.

The acting is outstanding, and it's clear that the scenes not in the original release were cut strictly due to time constraints as the acting is right on.

This is a great cast. Kate Hudson is a stand out, as is newcomer Patrick Fugit. Billy Crudup is wonderful as well, this is the movie which should have made him a movie star. Jason Lee ( of "Chasing Amy" and other Kevin Smith films ) is hysterical and just enough over the top to be believable. The movie, this version, rests soundly with Kate Hudson and Patrick Fugit.

I would think, had this Bootleg version been released theatrically, then perhaps Kate Hudson would have actually won the Academy Award rahter than just being nominated. She's done a wonderful job with this complex character.

The director's commentary is priceless, much like attending a film school seminar as conducted by Cameron Crowe.

This two disc set is a must have for any film fan. Even if you've got the original DVD release ( rather than this special edition set ), this is still more than worth the purchase price.

I would recommend this set. Strongly.

Best Regards,
turtlex

PS - if you've enjoyed this review, feel free to add me to your favorite people list as I try to write reviews frequently.

Thanks for reading.

78 of 87 found the following review helpful:

"Almost Famous" DVDeserves This Loving "Uncut" TreatmentJul 17, 2002
By Mike Stone
There's a moment early on in "Untitled", Cameron Crowe's 'Bootleg' Director's Cut of "Almost Famous", where rock critic Lester Bangs (Phillip Seymour Hoffman), in mid-rant, claims that the Box Tops' "The Letter" says more in less than two minutes, without even trying, than Jethro Tull can say in hours, while trying their damndest. It got me thinking: why didn't Crowe take his own advice? Why did he take a perfectly serviceable 122-minute movie that appeared to say everything, and turn it into a 162-minute movie? Well, I've seen "Untitled". It blows up "Almost Famous", makes it spectacle and spectacular, while never losing its intimate edge.

This is a case where more of a good thing doesn't turn into too much of a good thing.

What do you get with "Untitled"? Well, more character. Backstories are fleshed out, relationships are better defined, and the humanity becomes more human. We see William's (Patrick Fugit) kleptomania, along with more examples of how his youth made him an outcast. We get Penny Lane's (Kate Hudson) nurturing side, explicitly portrayed. And we get a full-on glimpse of Jeff Bebe's (Jason Lee) envy, why it started and how it manifests itself. A couple of full scenes are added, most notably a radio station appearance that's terribly funny, albeit irrelevant to the plot. But most of the additional footage comes from existing scenes being lengthened. More often than not, the point is clarified without boring the audience with tediousness.

The audio commentary begins with Cameron Crowe outlining the two paths they might go down. The first is the hemming-and-hawing path, where all the truths are covered up, in favour of banal stories and technical information. The second path is the heart-on-your-sleeve path, where all the inspirations and backstories are owned up to, where mistakes are agonized over, and the truth is king. If you've ever seen a Cameron Crowe movie, or heard the man speak more than two sentences, you'll know which path he chooses.

Crowe dominates the track. He's joined by a couple of execs (or PA's or something; they're never really introduced and don't say much). But the real treat of the track is the inclusion of one Mrs. Alice Crowe, Cameron's mom (and Frances McDormand's doppelganger). Besides being a doting mother, and quick to offer praise for her son, she also offers some real insights into the genesis of the film. She appears to know the movie backwards and forwards, and acts as further proof of the film's accuracy. It's amazing to see how much of the movie was really based on actual events. Every scene appears to begin with either Cameron or Alice being taken aback by the memories it invokes.

This is probably one of the best commentary tracks I've heard, for the inclusion, in equal measure, of technical information, on set anecdotes, and passion.

Also included on Disc One is real life video footage of an interview with Lester Bangs. Lester's vitriol is palpable, his menacing nature is enormous, but his warmth shines through. It's an interesting tidbit, in that it offers further proof that Hoffman is one of the greatest actors working today, for he doesn't stoop to imitating Lester. It's more like channeling. Then, Cameron includes a list -- complete with fully-represented album covers -- of his top albums of 1973 (the year the film is set). An interesting curiosity. Some of the works actually inform specific scenes from the film, which is kind of a neat trick. They've also put together a "video" for the Stillwater song "Love Comes and Goes", which is basically a montage of behind-the-scenes moments from the Rock Camp the actors had to go through. More of this can bee seen on "B-Sides", another video montage. Most interesting is the inclusion of seven of Crowe's Rolling Stone articles from the era, printed in their entirety. It's not hard to see the nascent voice of Crowe the filmmaker shining through these passion-filled pieces.

Disc Two has a lot less going for it. Its main feature is the original theatrical version of the movie. Also included is the full-length (15 minutes or so) Cleveland Concert, parts of which we see in the movie. Despite the fact that Billy Crudup sometimes plays notes not actually in the songs, and that Jason Lee still has to work on his between song banter, this footage shows just how well the actors did in achieving their collective band persona. The music's not that great, but the vibe, captured by on-stage camera work, is authentic. The Production Notes section is basically the same essay you'll find in the box's liner notes, only with additional information. There's an interesting little video moment, with Pete Droge and Elaine Summers singing "Small Time Blues" in a Hyatt House hotel room. It's a moment quickly passed by in the actual movie. But here you get to hear the whole song, from William's voyeuristic point-of-view, and it's just stunningly beautiful. You can also scroll through Crowe's screenplay, peruse the cast and crew bios, and watch the theatrical trailer.

Disc Three is an audio CD. It's got the six Stillwater songs, written variously by Nancy Wilson, Cameron Crowe, and Peter Frampton, among others. They're not very good songs, and I'm not sure they fit the era they're supposed to come from, but for an "Almost Famous" completist, like myself, it's neat to have them in all their (sub-)glory.

A lot of effort was put into making this set look like a real bootleg, the kind of clandestine little document you'd pick up at a seedy record store. I think the look and feel enhance the movie. Which was pretty good to begin with.

38 of 42 found the following review helpful:

Best movie of 2000Mar 23, 2001
By michaelb1968
No, the DVD doesn't have all the extras that Amazon promised. They goofed on that one. But, rest assured that the version we all want will be along in a few months when CC is done shooting "Vanilla Sky".

Let me start by marveling at the plethora of negative reviews here. Even the critics that didn't name it to their Top 10 list didn't dislike the movie. You will be hard pressed to find a single negative professional review anywhere on this movie. Please disregard the short, ignorant reviews here that do no more than call the movie names. This movie is all you could ask for and then some.

The story is old news by now. Everybody knows it is based on CC's real life experiences as a teenage scribe covering the rock scene for Rolling Stone magazine. Unlike many movies based on a true story, many of the pivotal scenes in this movie actually took place. Very few artistic liberties were taken with regards to key events.

The acting was virtually flawless. Phillip Seymour Hoffman would have won an Oscar if there was an awards given for cameos. His role was too small to be considered for best supporting actor, but it was the best performance I have seen in a long time. McDormand and Hudson both earned their nominations. Kate Hudson's range was astonishing, especially in the "$50/Case of Beer" scene. Jason Lee was born to play the part of Jeff Bebe, and Jimmy Fallon was surprisingly strong as a sleazy agent. The movies focal points were Billy Crudup as Russel Hammond, a self-centered guitarist with several intricate layers to his makeup. Crudup played the part perfectly and deserved official recognition for his work. Patrick Fugit, playing William Miller/CC was excellent in his debut. Like Hudson, his expressions were worth a million words. Even Zooey Deschanel was fabulous in her short scenes as William's influential older sister. I expect to see a lot more of her in the coming years.

Several scenes stand out, and the soundtrack was wisely chosen. Anyone that remembers albums had to appreciate the way a wide-eyed William gazed at all those covers with amazement for the first time. The late night conversation between Hoffman and Bangs near the end was heartbreaking and warm and brialliant and funny all wrapped up into one. The movie is full of nostalgia, but not so much that it becomes provincial and self-indulgent.

The Academy snubbed this movie for the likes of Gladiator, Erin Brockovich, and Chocolat. Never before has that disconnected gang of oafs committed such a crime. Buy this movie and treasure it, because art like this doesn't come around very often.

14 of 14 found the following review helpful:

"Gonna Buy Five Copies For My Mother"....Dec 08, 2002
By L. Shirley "Laurie's Boomer Views"
This review refers to the Dreamworks March 2001 Widescreen release of the "Almost Famous" DVD..........

Watching this film is like being in Rock and Roll Heaven! It is filled with young bright shining stars, under the superb direction of Cameron Crowe(Jerry Maguire). The music is like a trip down memory lane, and is very much a part of this great ensemble.

This semi-autobiographical coming of age story, takes a young journalist on the journey of a lifetime. Based on actual events from Cameron Crowe's life, 15 year old William Miller lands a job with "Rolling Stone" magazine. He must go on the road with rockers "Stillwater"(a group actually put together by the filmakers and stars),and write their story. He hangs out everywhere with them, hotels, backstage, rides with them on their bus(this poor guy, a rotten job.. but somebody had to...)and eventually becomes very close with them and the "Band-Aids"(not groupies!) that are their entourage.All this to the constant worry of his over-protective mother, who besides rock and roll is another huge influence on his life.

Follow William, the band, and the girls on a tour of a lifetime, in this deliciously funny and sometimes poignant story of learning what's important in life.All filmed beautifully, with those great outfits of the 60's and 70's and of course one killer soundtrack. All the great rock legends of this era are heard throughout the film, including Elton John, The Who, and Peter Frampton whose instruction in music makes "Stillwater" great!The film also includes original music written especially for "Stillwater" that is fabulous as well.

The casting is impeccable...William is played by newcomer Patrick Fugit with an intuitiveness that is uncanny. Billy Crudup and Jason Lee are the leads for the band and totaly have that rocker image down pat. Kate Hudson is irresistable as "Penny Lane" and the other "Band-Aids", including Anna Paquin and Fairza Balk also contribute greatly. Two outstanding performances are Frances McDormand as William's mother and Phillip Seymour Hoffman as his mentor.

This outstanding film is put together in an outstanding package. The DVD(although no the more expensive one) is a beautiful transfer in every way. The picture is in Widescreen(anamorphic 1.85:1). It's clear, colors are vivid, and shows off the great film work. Lots of choices on the sound(depending on your set up). There's DTS, Dolby 5.1 or 2.0 Surround. The dialouge and music both coming through brillantly. Tons of special features for you to peruse. There's a music video of "Stillwater" doing their song "Fever Dog' from the film, A "making of" featurette, blurbs on the "Rolling Stone" articles done by Cameron Crowe, and cast and crew bios to mention a few.It also comes with a booklet of some production notes, and it is captioned if needed.There is also another edition, a directors cut with some "never before seen footage" and other extras(see buying info) if your looking for even more. This edition though, is also top quality and costs a little less. Whichever edition you choose, if you've seen this film and love it, the DVD is a must have. If you haven't seen it, it's just a MUST!

A film to be enjoyed by anyone who loves good movies and good music! so enjoy.....Laurie

also available in this two-pack:Almost Famous/American Beauty

14 of 14 found the following review helpful:

The "bootleg" edition is the one to own.Jul 08, 2002
By hassenfeffer
This director's edition of "Almost Famous" is one of the best DVDs on the market. "Almost Famous" is Cameron Crowe's autobiographical story about a teen-aged reporter on the road with a rock and roll band. The character that Crowe based on himself is William Miller (well played by Patrick Fugit). A reporter for his high school newspaper, the unpopular William dreams of writing for a rock and roll publication. He gets his big chance when he meets his idol, rock reporter Lester Bangs (Phillip Seymour Hoffman, in a great supporting role). Bangs tells William to write an interview for Cream Magazine. That interview (with Black Sabbath) does not happen, but he meets the opening act, Stillwater. Soon, Wlliam finds himself on the road with Stillwater, with an assignment to write an article about them for Rolling Stone. William is befriended by groupie Penny Lane (Kate Hudson, who deservedly won a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination), whose boyfriend is the band's lead guitarist (Billy Crudup). What follows is William's sometimes funny and sometimes painful experiences with life on the road. He becomes friends with the band and falls in love with Penny, all while trying to write an objective article for the magazine. It is hard for him to stay objective about his new friends. As Lester observes:"They made you feel cool. And I've met you. You are not cool." These situations are all observed with a lot of heart and soul in Cameron Crowe's Oscar winning script. Frances McDormand adds just the right touch as William's mother, who doesn't understand her son's dreams, but wants to be supportive anyway. The "bootleg" edition DVD is loaded with lots of REALLY COOL extras. The first disc includes a director's cut with 35 extra minutes, including a birthday party scene for Penny, among others. The second disc includes the original film. The package also gives you commentary by Crowe and his mother Alice; behind-the-scenes foootage; unseen Stillwater concert footage; the original shooting script; an interview with Bangs from 1973; Crowe's top 10 albums of 1973; reprints of Crowe's articles for Rolling Stone; even a six track CD of Stillwater's songs. Only "Fever Dog" appears on both this CD and the soundtrack album. All the songs on the bonus CD are great. "Almost Famous" is one of my favorite movies in recent years. If you are as big a fan of the film as I am, you'll want to get this double disc set. It is a "must purchase."

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