Oasis: Supersonic

Synopsis

Released in October 2016, Oasis: Supersonic is a British music documentary that dives into the meteoric rise of the iconic Britpop band, Oasis. Directed by Mat Whitecross and produced by award-winning filmmakers Asif Kapadia and James Gay-Rees, this film captures the essence of the band’s early success and their groundbreaking impact on music in the 1990s.

The film was distributed in the UK by Entertainment One and Lorton Distribution, and A24 brought it to audiences in the United States.

Storyline

The documentary offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the journey of Oasis, focusing on the formative years of the band. Through rare archival footage, concert videos, and backstage moments, Oasis: Supersonic brings to life the band’s rise to stardom. Featuring candid off-screen interviews with the Gallagher brothers, Noel and Liam, and those close to them, the film presents a raw and intimate portrait of their musical journey and personal dynamics.

Box Office Performance

Despite a limited theatrical run of just 16 days, the film made a notable impact at the box office. It grossed $242,867 in North America and $1.2 million internationally, bringing its total earnings to $1.5 million worldwide. Additionally, its DVD and Blu-ray sales contributed $182,049, showing the enduring appeal of Oasis among fans.

Audience and Critical Reception

The documentary received widespread praise for its emotional depth and nostalgic charm. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts an 84% approval rating, with many reviewers highlighting its heartfelt exploration of the band’s early years. On Metacritic, it holds a solid score of 71 out of 100, reflecting generally favorable reviews.

Fans appreciated the film for its focus on the brotherly rivalry between Liam and Noel Gallagher, which has been central to the band’s narrative. Critics like David Ehrlich of IndieWire described the documentary as a poignant and insightful dive into one of the most famous sibling rivalries in music history.

However, not everyone was satisfied. Some critics, including The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw, felt that the film overlooked key moments, such as the band’s rivalry with Blur and their later decline in popularity. Others, like Brian Tallerico of RogerEbert.com, believed the documentary was entertaining but lacked depth, especially given its extended runtime.

Why Watch Oasis: Supersonic?

For fans of Oasis and Britpop, this documentary is a must-watch. It celebrates the band’s heyday while offering an intimate glimpse into the highs and lows of their journey. Whether you’re an old fan revisiting the golden years or a new listener curious about the band’s legendary status, Oasis: Supersonic delivers an emotional and nostalgic experience.