Almost Famous (2000) [R]

Never has Billy Crudup been more sexy or Kate Hudson more luminous. This semi-autobiographical movie, written and directed by Cameron Crowe, is the story of a 15-year-old boy's adventure when he is given an assignment by Rolling Stone Magazine. Not knowing that he is so young, William is able to talk them into letting him write about a minor band, Stillwater, and goes on tour with them.

Stillwater has its groupies, a band of four girls who call themselves "Band-Aides." They have great names: Estrella Starr (Bijou Phillips), Polexia Aphrodisia (Anna Paquin), Sapphire (Fairuza Balk), and Penny Lane (a glowing Kate Hudson). William falls in love with Penny Lane, who in turn is in love with Russell (Billy Crudup), the guitarist and leader of the band.

This is a coming-of-age story. William encounters grown-up issues and has to learn to deal with betrayal, jealousy, sex, drugs, and the games people play with each others' hearts.

This is probably Kate Hudson's best performance. It is certainly her break-out role. After seeing this, you will agree it is a shame that she has relegated herself to the superficial and silly world of rom-coms.

Billy Crudup is gorgeous, sexy, and funny in this movie. You'll never forget him standing on the roof and screaming, "I am a golden god." After this movie, it seems that he made an effort to not be viewed as romantic leading man material by playing roles that not only play down his attractiveness, but often make him very unappealing. It's a shame, because I always appreciate eye candy, especially when it is coupled with an excellent performance.

The soundtrack is fantastic and won a Grammy in 2001. There is also a director's cut available, with previously deleted scenes.

There is real charm in this movie. It is fun to watch and surprises you with its depth and feeling. All the performances are excellent, even the smaller roles. If this was the time period when you were coming-of-age yourself, you will delight in the memories. If you are younger, you will enjoy the snapshot of that era in music.

DIRECTOR: Cameron Crowe.  CAST: Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson, Jason Lee, Patrick Fugit, Anna Paquin, Fairuza Balk, Noah Taylor, Zooey Deschanel, Bijou Phillips, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Peter Frampton, Jimmy Fallon.

AWARDS: Won 1 Oscar. Another 43 wins and 76 nominations.