Almost Famous [DVD] [2002]

I've loved this film since the first time I watched it and decided to replace my DVD copy with the Blu Ray version. Sadly the Blu Ray disk only contains the Extended Cut which adds around 40 minutes to the films running time. This is truly a case of "more is less" because the extra footage while not bad in and of itself destroys the pace and focus of the film. It is a shame that there is not an option to chose which version one wants to watch on the disk or even an option to buy a separate release version of the film on BD.Initially when I saw a few extra bits in the film I was pleased because sometimes films are excessively trimmed to fit a two hour running time and as I like the film and the characters this initially seemed like it could be an improvement. But I was finding that what had been a really enjoyable film over multiple viewings was simply dragging. Yes we get to know a few of the supporting characters better in this version and yes there are undoubtedly "moments" that have a charm of their own, but none of these changed the story or added depth, only breadth. It is clear that the original release version had been edited well and that the quality of what was left in was better than the bits that ended up on the cutting room floor, and to an extent leaving the viewer to fill in the gaps can make us more sympathetic. It is often the same with "bonus" tracks on remastered CDs where the previously unheard tracks are clearly inferior to those on the original album.Obviously some reviewer do appreciate the longer version and this is no doubt because their focus is on wallowing in the atmosphere of 1970s rock. My interest is generally in story, and personally find films that convey atmosphere and mood succinctly are more enjoyable.

wow what a great movie, amazing soundtrack with 5 led zeppelin songs, that amazing as jimmy page & robert plant never give permission for their songs to be used in movies, even though they didnt give them permission for stairway to heaven, but still 5 great led zepp tracks plus jimi hendrix tracks & deep purples burn, also has a great story plus the super hot kate hudson & over 2 hours 20 minutes long makes this DVD well worth the money to me.

A much underrated film (perhaps Crowe's best), an often very funny meditation on growing up, fame, love, where the only really vile characters are the editors of Rolling Stone magazine (clearly a case of revenge being a dish best served cold). The narrative ark is kind of foreseeable, but it doesn't really matter: how the film gets there is never quite predictable, full of gems, wonderful vignettes, intriguing asides and sometimes splendid dialogue. One for repeat viewing.

If you love the golden era of rock - IMHO the 1970's - this movie will keep you very entertained. You'll get big hair, big egos, cigarettes, lots of alcohol, drugs - all while hearing some lovely tunes. After watching, be sure to read up about all the rock cultural references that they've included in the movie. A gem for me - have watched this multiple times

...because I've been missing out all these years. I loved this film. It could be better in many ways but I don't care. It plays on the heartstrings and leaves me rooting for Penny and William from the moment they first meet each other. The band? They're not so important. It's about the young ones and they are lovely. Well drawn, well written, well lush!

Love this film that captures the 70s vibe so well and the revolutionary power of music in that era -especially on the US side, but there is a lot that British people can relate to as well. Great soundtrack too. Superb performances and the sex drugs rock n roll aspect of it is tastefully done without being sleazy.

I really liked this movie. Incredible cast... in fact you’ll sit and watch the movie constantly pausing it to go “omg who is that again? what was he in?” because there are SO many actors in this whole movie who play smaller roles as they were not as big as they are now. Overall great and fun movie.

Considering the director also bought is the truly-immense and thought-provoking Vanilla Sky, it's a wonder how this travesty ever happened. It's obviously an autobiographical vanity project by a music journo whose early success has clearly gone to his head. Self-indulgent, overly bloated and grandiose. This actually puts me OFF other films he's made.