Oasis' Reunion Explored in 'Don’t Look Back in Anger': A Sentimental Take on Rock's Notorious Rivalry

In an unexpected turn, the documentary 'Oasis: Don’t Look Back in Anger' offers a surprisingly gentle look at the iconic Britpop band during their 2025 reunion tour. Premiering at the Venice Film Festival, directors Dylan Southern and Will Lovelace present a film that contrasts the brothers' infamous rivalry with a focus on the emotional connection their music has fostered among fans.

Confronting the Past

The film opens with a montage highlighting the Gallagher brothers’ public estrangement since 2009, setting the stage for their reunion. Viewers are taken behind the scenes to witness the band’s rehearsals, where the tension is palpable, yet the expected fireworks between Noel and Liam are notably absent. Instead, the brothers exhibit a professional demeanor, seemingly filtered through a PR lens, which leaves fans yearning for the raw authenticity that once defined their relationship.

A Focus on Fans

While the documentary includes some thrilling concert footage, much of its runtime centers on the fans who embody the spirit of Oasis. Through vibrant clips of concert-goers passionately singing along, the film illustrates the euphoric escape that Oasis's music offers, particularly as nostalgia for the 1990s resurfaces in the UK amidst contemporary societal challenges. However, the film’s sentimental approach, including touching anecdotes from fans, often feels disconnected from the brothers’ more guarded commentary.

Missed Opportunities and Toned-Down Edginess

Despite its impressive sound design and concert visuals, the film's earnest attempts to portray the emotional weight of the reunion fall flat. The juxtaposition of heartfelt fan stories, such as a survivor of the Manchester Arena attack finding solace in 'Don’t Look Back in Anger,' with the brothers’ distant remarks feels forced. The overall tone, marked by sentimentality, deviates from the edgy, rebellious spirit that characterized Oasis, leading to a portrayal that many might interpret as a missed opportunity to celebrate their legacy authentically.

Source: variety.com