Movie poster for Cameron Crowe's Almost Famous

In Cameron Crowe's Almost Famous, William Miller is a fifteen-year-old high school senior who has the opportunity to accompany the band Stillwater for their cross-country tour in the height of rock and roll-- the 70s. The young rock journalist is confronted with many conflicts during his time on the road, but the issue that resurfaces again and again is one of authenticity. 

The authenticity of William's character is called into question as he is whisked away into a world of sex, drugs, and rock and roll. William must choose whether he will follow in the footsteps of the other characters in the movie, or tread his own path-- one that is authentic to who he is. William’s experiences in the film are based on the childhood of Cameron Crowe. There are aspects of the film that are not accurate, but these instances, while damaging the historical authenticity of the film, help center the film’s conflict on authenticity. The few breaches of historical accuracy in music and costuming also bolster the authenticity within the film. These inconsistencies help William Miller and Penny Lane become authentic people.

For the most part, Cameron Crowe’s departures from authenticity are intentional and significant. However, Almost Famous’ marketing highlighted the film’s authenticity in such a way that undermined any attempts Cameron Crowe might have made to create an authentic film.