Almost Famous/Ragamuffin Analysis Assignment

ALMOST FAMOUS ANALYSIS ASSIGNMENT

1. The main character William Miller is based upon Cameron Crowe, answer the following questions about Cameron

A. After working for Rolling Stone what did Cameron go on to be known for?

B. Name some of Cameron’s greatest career successes.

C. Though they later split who did Cameron Crowe go on to marry?

2. The character Russell Hammond is based upon a few real life Rock Stars that Cameron spent time on the road with including Duane Allman and Robert Plant but the character is primarily based on what Rock Star??? From reading what similarities do you see in personality between Russell and that rock star?

3. In both real life and in the film Lester Bangs is a mentor for William (Cameron).

A. Describe the relationship in the film between Lester and William.

B. Also in real life in what city and in what circumstance did Cameron and

Lester meet (hint it is not the same as the movie)??

C. Lester has a quote at both the beginning and towards the end of the film

that William recalls. How do you think William’s interpretation of that quote

change between the first time he hears it and when he is reminded of it the

second time?

4. Taken within the context of the film how do you interpret the following quotes?

A. “The only true currency in this bankrupt world is what you share with someone else when you’re uncool.”

B. “If you want to be a true friend to them, be honest and unmerciful.”

C. “Most people, they’re just waiting to talk. But you listen.”

D. “Maybe we just don’t see ourselves the way we really are.”

E. “I have to go home” – William… “You are home.” - Penny

5. What industry role does Dick Roswell perform in the film? Does he do it well? Answer should be in-depth with examples to support.

6. Discuss in detail “you see man the Tshirt is everything!” What is the underlying issue? What does it say about relationships and the very real challenge of band dynamics?

7. Viewed over the course of the film, compare Penny Lane and Elaine Miller. How are they different? How are they similar?

Identify the following real people mentioned in the film AND give some real historical facts about the real people.

A. Glyn Johns:

B. Penny Lane (hint she is based off of a few people):

1. Bebe Buell 2. Penny Ann Trumball

C. Jann Wenner:

D. Frank Barsalona

8. The four main characters in the movie are William, Penny, Elaine, and Russell. Discuss:

A. How they each relate to the music industry

B. What journey does their character take? How do they change throughout

the movie.

C. What is their philosophy and approach to the music business?

. 9. How do some plot points in Almost Famous integrate with concepts learned in class regarding the music business? Give 3 specific examples from both class notes and the text (so 6 in total) reference appropriate Content Sections for notes and page numbers for text.