Okay, let's talk... ALMOST FAMOUS

[Josh]

So, who here has seen Almost Famous? There's no need for me to also ask who here loves Almost Famous, I don't think; to see that movie IS to love it.

I'll get the ball rolling with a few things that I love about the film. Beware of possible spoilers.

1. William Miller is a fifteen year old rock journalist. I started writing music reviews at 13, so this film obviously hits close to home.

2. The movie is honest about the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. It shows us both the pleasures and the consequences of living in such a way. It doesn't encourage or condemn the way these characters live; it simply shows us the truth.

3. WILLIAM'S MOM! She's my hero! She's naive, perhaps, but she isn't portrayed as a bad guy. And I like how she has enough faith in the way she raised her son to allow him to have his adventure, confident that he'll remember what she taught him.

4. Kate Hudson.

5. The music.

6. Lester Bangs.

7. The fact that William is walking among giants, but he eventually out-cools all of them. He's something of a Christ figure, I'd say.

Okay, that's enough for starters.

[enemy anemone]

I watched it because you lauded it but I don't particularly love it.  

[Josh]

You're the exception, not the rule.  =)  

[smartash]

i've LOVED that movie ever since it came out. if i didnt believe in Christ and the need to walk in His footsteps, i would want to be penny lane!

[rebel546]

So how is William a Christ figure?

I liked it, but it did more for me than enjoyment. I think it confirmed for me that I don't want to be a journalist. While six months ago I would have drooled all over William's dream come true, nothing about what he did appealed to me. I don't know enough about music or movies to be a good enough critic and simply trying to become a better one inhibits my ability to enjoy or get something out of the film/music.

Josh, I remember you saying after the first time that you watched it you almost gave up being a critic. Why?

[Josh]

So how is William a Christ figure?

He takes light into a dark world. He's a role model to all of the people he encounters. And he helps them find redemption, especially Penny and Russel.

Josh, I remember you saying after the first time that you watched it you almost gave up being a critic. Why?

I guess because the film hit an emotional nerve or something and I gave into sentimentality. I was wrong, though. The Bible commands us to test everything and lift up that which is praiseworthy, and to pursue excellence in everything that we do- which must include art appreciation- so I think it's important for everyone to be a critic.