#683: Almost Famous / Steven Hyden
With rock writer and cultural critic Steven Hyden dropping by to discuss his new book, "Twilight of the Gods: A Journey to the End of Classic Rock," Adam and Josh decided it was as good a time as any to revisit rock-critic-turned-filmmaker Cameron Crowe's ode to '70s rock ALMOST FAMOUS. As a meditation on criticism and the critic's relationship with artists, Adam and Josh agree that the movie is as authentic, moving and funny today as it was almost 20 years ago. They also agree on some minor quibbles with the film, but save their biggest debate for Billy Crudup's enigmatic guitarist Russell Hammond. Was Crowe right to pick a good actor over a good musician? Hyden makes it clear where he stands on the issue when he joins the conversation and also talks about the past, present and future of Classic Rock.
And if you're wondering what happened to this week's top 5 list? It's coming. Sides 3 and 4 of this Filmspotting double album will drop next week when Hyden returns for the Top 5 Classic Rock Moments in Movies.
This episode of Filmspotting is presented by Intel, Xfinity, and Squarespace (code FILM).
0:00-2:28 - Intro
3:11-49:33 - Sacred Cow: "Almost Famous"
Elton John, "Tiny Dancer"
52:35-1:02:25 - Notes / Polls (Replacing an Icon / Best of Pixar)
1:02:25-1:36:18 - Interview: Steven Hyden
1:36:18-1:45:10 - Close / Hot Mics
LINKS