How did these people EVER have careers?

It's astonishing the amount of charlatans that get to have careers, all it takes is one hit movie I guess. I enjoyed this movie when it came out, but looking at it today it is so bad, and everyone involved is so incredibly untalented one has to wonder how they've managed to maintain constant employment and in such a level. People are so stupid, it's all about hype and appearance. What ever happened to Cameron Crowe?