Semi autobiographical account of Cameron Crowe's memories as a Rolling Stone reporter. Teeneage outcast William dreams of being a rock journalist, and by various byways, including pestering rock critic Lester bangs, ends up on tour with the fictional band Stillwater. Instead of remaining "the enemy," William ends up deeply involved in the trials and adventures of the band and it's followers.
A richly rewarding and funny film, in which each character gets a chance to breathe and define themselves. One could almost say it plays as a more realistic, less absurd version of Spinal Tap; and that is a good thing!