The documentary "Oasis: Don’t Look Back in Anger," directed by Dylan Southern and Will Lovelace, chronicles the highly anticipated reunion of Manchester siblings Noel and Liam Gallagher and their band Oasis. The film, released in cinemas recently, combines dynamic live performances from the band's Live ’25 world tour with backstage footage, crowd reactions, and the brothers’ first joint interview in more than two decades.
Throughout the film, Noel and Liam’s interactions are candid and unfiltered, marked by frequent use of strong language as they engage in playful, sometimes sharp exchanges. The concert segments feature notable performances of Oasis classics such as "Some Might Say," "Roll With It," and "Wonderwall," underscoring the enduring popularity of the band.
The documentary also highlights the emotional significance of the reunion for fans, including testimonials that express the event as a cultural milestone. One particularly poignant moment captures a survivor of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombings experiencing "Don’t Look Back In Anger" live for the first time. The song had become an unofficial anthem of mourning in the wake of that tragedy, emphasizing the band’s symbolic place in the city’s collective memory. This connection adds an extra layer of meaning to the Gallagher brothers' reconciliation after 15 years of estrangement.
Despite its celebratory tone, the film avoids delving into contentious issues surrounding the reunion, such as the criticism over ticketing arrangements for the tour. Moreover, it does not explore in depth what motivated the brothers to reconcile after years of bitterness. In archival footage, Noel once describes himself as being incapable of forgiveness, yet by the documentary’s conclusion, his demeanor shifts, culminating in public displays of affection alongside Liam while Jackie DeShannon’s "What The World Needs Now Is Love" plays.
While primarily tailored for Oasis fans, the documentary offers a candid glimpse into the complex relationship between the Gallagher brothers and captures a defining moment in contemporary British rock history.
