‘Oasis: Don’t Look Back In Anger’ Review: The Gallagher Bros. Bury The Hatchet In A Sentimental But Funny Concert Movie – Venice Film Festival

The long-awaited reunion of Oasis, the iconic British rock band, takes center stage in the documentary "Oasis: Don’t Look Back In Anger," which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Directed by Dylan Southern and Will Lovelace, the film offers an insider perspective on the band’s multi-million-dollar world stadium tour that marked a surprising reconciliation between brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher.

Despite the reunion's high profile and extensive promotion, the documentary notably refrains from explicitly addressing the reasons behind the brothers' decision to set aside their famously turbulent relationship. Instead, it focuses on the tangible outcomes of their reunion, showcasing the dynamics that unfolded during rehearsals and live performances, as well as the impact on both band members and their devoted fanbase.

Oasis’s last performance before their split was abruptly cut short in 2009 at the Rock en Seine festival, an event remembered for the band’s sudden disappearance from the stage, which left promoters and attendees frustrated. Reflecting on this period, the film reveals both Noel and Liam's surprise at the enduring loyalty of their audience, despite the band’s previous erratic behavior and internal strife.

Central to the documentary is an exploration of Oasis's cultural significance during their peak in the mid-1990s. Their breakthrough albums, "Definitely Maybe" (1994) and "(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?" (1995), continue to define their legacy, overshadowing their wider discography. These records helped cement Oasis’s role in what has been termed the 'second British Invasion' of the American music scene, setting them apart from contemporaries like Blur.

The film captures the initial skepticism surrounding the reunion announcement, with fans and industry insiders alike doubting the band’s ability to come together again. Early scenes portray the tense atmosphere in the rehearsal studio, drawing parallels to historic sessions like The Beatles’ "Let It Be" recordings, and highlighting the uncertainty about whether Liam Gallagher would even attend rehearsals.

Notably absent from the reunited lineup until this tour was rhythm guitarist Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs, whose return is credited with restoring the band’s distinctive sound. His earlier departure had coincided with a decline in the band's commercial success, with critics comparing Oasis unfavorably to more derivative acts. The restoration of this core element helped rekindle the band’s signature blend of punk, mod, glam, and Beatles-inspired rock.

Liam’s entrance to rehearsals is depicted with a sense of theatricality and renewed vigor, signaling a possible turning point. His vocal performance during the tour reportedly outshone that of rival contemporaries, reinforcing the band’s continuing vitality despite their years apart. The first reunion show in Cardiff was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, drawing an audience that spanned generations and demonstrated the band’s cross-generational appeal.

The film also delves into the fan culture surrounding Oasis, characterized by a tribal and almost religious fervor. This passionate following is a testament to the band’s impact, with crowds numbering up to 90,000 at stadium shows, all deeply connected to the band’s anthemic tracks and charismatic presence.

Beyond the music, the documentary examines the evolving relationship between the Gallagher brothers, framing their reunion as a form of personal reconciliation. This narrative is given an almost spiritual dimension, at times veering into the ceremonial, as the film features a priest using their story to illustrate themes of forgiveness and renewal.

Noel and Liam’s interactions reveal a mutual recognition of each other’s self-awareness and enduring commitment to their music careers. Liam’s pragmatic approach to performance contrasts with Noel’s more reserved demeanor, yet both demonstrate a shared understanding of the band's legacy and their roles within it.

While the documentary’s length and inclusion of extensive fan interactions may challenge viewers less invested in Oasis’s history, its concert footage and candid moments offer valuable insights. The film culminates with a powerful rendition of the band’s signature ballad, lending emotional weight to the reunion narrative and underscoring the enduring resonance of Oasis’s music.

In sum, "Don’t Look Back In Anger" provides a comprehensive look at one of the most notable band reunions of recent decades, capturing the complexities of sibling rivalry, fan devotion, and the enduring influence of Oasis on rock music culture. Though some details about the reunion’s origins remain unexplored, the film stands as a testament to the band’s lasting significance and the transformative power of music and forgiveness.