The long-standing animosity between Oasis co-founders Noel and Liam Gallagher appears to have softened, with their shared musical journey being credited as the primary factor in their reconciliation. This significant development coincides with the premiere of their new documentary, "Oasis: Don't Look Back In Anger," at the Venice Film Festival. Noel, reflecting on their mended bond, expressed surprise at his own emotional reaction during their recent tour, and described his brother Liam as "delightful," indicating a profound shift in their previously turbulent relationship.
The highly anticipated reunion tour, "Live in 25," proved to be a massive financial success, earning each brother an estimated £100 million. This triumph is set to be followed by another tour next year, further solidifying their renewed collaboration. The documentary delves into the untold story of how the brothers achieved this peace, a narrative previously shrouded in mystery given their well-documented history of conflict, which notably led to the band's split in 2009.
During a photo call at the Venice Film Festival, Noel and Liam presented a united front, appearing genuinely brotherly as they embraced. Noel, now 59, admitted that the emotional impact of their reconciliation was unexpected, confessing to turning away from the audience during parts of their 41-date tour to conceal his tears. He noted that the minor irritations they once harbored for each other have faded, allowing them to engage as equals. "He's delightful," Noel remarked, a sentiment he never imagined uttering about his brother, adding, "We communicate like normal people now. The music brought us back together."
Despite the apparent newfound harmony, the Gallaghers opted out of a traditional press conference, preferring to avoid direct questions about their relationship. Will Lovelace, the film's director, observed their improved rapport, stating, "They seem to be getting on pretty well." In the documentary, Liam himself acknowledges the reconciliation occurred "without saying a word," emphasizing that no formal apology was ever exchanged for past grievances, including public insults directed at Noel's daughter Anais and ex-wife Sara. Liam downplayed their past feuds, stating, "Leave it out mate, we had a little argument, you know what I mean," and later adding, "I didn't mean it to be the way that it was."
The filmmakers revealed that the brothers were not on speaking terms when production began, requiring separate interviews during tour rehearsals. Their initial meeting, captured for the documentary, shows both struggling to make eye contact. Liam's dismissive demeanor was evident when he entered the rehearsal room, asking about the catering before demanding they start, and then leaving immediately after his vocal performance. Noel commented on Liam's consistent foul mood upon arrival and departure, concluding, "He just comes in and then f***s off." The band's promoters, wary of their history, uniquely withheld payment until all 41 tour dates were completed.
Steven Knight, the writer, noted the inherent British working-class masculinity of the brothers, suggesting they wouldn't overtly display affection. He highlighted that their ability to sit down together only emerged as the tour progressed. Liam's initial refusal to participate in a rehearsal the night before their first concert in Cardiff last year, arriving just 20 minutes before the show, further underscored the tension. Noel described Liam's casual inquiry about catering upon arrival and his surprise when Liam unexpectedly took his hand before they walked onto the stage together. Liam, ever the pragmatist, stated, "You just have to put on your big boy pants and get on with it. Do it well and move people." As the tour unfolded, their children also met for the first time, fostering new family connections. Noel's children, Sonny and Donovan (with Sara), and Anais (with Meg Mathews), interacted with Liam's children, Lennon, Molly, and Gene, on tour. Noel expressed his joy, saying, "My kids met his kids. They didn't know each other they have never met they are all best friends now." Liam humorously added, "They are loving it - f***ing spangled every night."
Initially, Noel harbored doubts about a genuine reconciliation, attributing it to a personal character flaw: "I was born with one fatal flaw in my character: I will not forgive people. That is something I was born with. I haven't got any forgiveness in me at all." He characterized Liam as someone who truly didn't care and wouldn't change, necessitating an approach from Noel's side. However, later in the documentary, the brothers appear together, with Noel laughing at Liam's jokes, remarking, "I forgot how funny he was." Director Will Lovelace recalled the palpable tension at the outset, noting that it only eased when the band experienced the energy of the crowds. He described this as a moment of "alchemy," recognizing the profound significance for fans who had waited 16 years for this reunion. "Oasis: Don't Look Back In Anger" is set to be released in IMAX and cinemas on September 9th, aiming to offer fans an immersive experience of the tour. The directors also humorously counted the number of expletives used by the brothers in the film, tallying an impressive 179.
The documentary offers a unique glimpse into the complex dynamic between the Gallagher brothers, showcasing their journey from bitter rivalry to a reluctant but genuine reconciliation. It emphasizes the enduring power of their music to transcend personal differences and unite them, not just for their fans, but for their own family. The film serves as a testament to their legacy and the unexpected turns life can take, proving that even the most fractured relationships can find a path to peace, albeit a profanity-laced one.
