Note: This film has been placed back in theaters briefly. Though I missed the movie when it first came out, I was able to be introduced to this documentary on the big screen, which is the best way to see it.
An excellent documentary about one of the most iconic rock bands of the 1990's.
This movie takes a wonderful approach to the rock and roll documentary. Rather than having your typical narrator, this film has all of the offscreen talking done by the band, those they toured with and family members. The film also completely revolves around the first few years of the band, from their start to the height of their popularity. Both of these make this movie something truly special. Listening to the band tell us the story themselves is a wonderful idea. It helps make this film feel like something more up close and personal than the average rock-doc. As we watch this movie, we get to feel like we get to truly know who these people are. It also gives the film a real sense of honesty as none of their flaws are hidden from us. Their egos, the arguments between the two brothers at the front of the band and their tempers are all on full display here. Yet at the same time, this is far from a fully negative portrait of thew group. We also see that they are a band that truly appreciates their fans and goes out of their way to make sure that their audience gets the best they can give them. As such this becomes a complex portrait of not only major rock stars but also real human beings. At the same time, their music is often front and center. Listening to their music here, it is very easy to understand why they become so popular, it is truly wonderful. It is shown to its best effect here and this film is truly a treat for the ears. This movie uses many rarely seen (well before the film was released) live footage of the band in concert. These are true gems and help give one the idea of just what incredible shows this band put on at the height of their powers. I always feel that the best compliment that a music documentary can be given is that someone who is unfamiliar with the band, would become a fan after watching. With this delightful rock-doc, I can fully see this happening.
Mat Whitecross, this movie's director, has had a career that has revolved around rock and roll. His career began with an art film entitled 9 Songs (2004); a movie whose story revolves around nine different rock songs heard throughout. He also directed the Ian Duray biopic Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll (2010) and the rock-docs Scott Walker: 30 Century Man (2006) and Coldplay: A Head Full of Dreams (2018) as well as the Coldplay concert film, Live in São Paulo (2018). Away from movies, he has also directed music videos for Pink Floyd, Coldplay, Take That and The Rolling Stones.
Oasis: Supersonic is a wonderful treat for all rock and roll fans.
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