Narrating the rewarding story of one of the largest concert events in Britain, a new documentary Liam Gallagher – Knebworth 22 goes the extra mile to assemble the parts that made up the full picture, and ultimately led to the production of two gigantic concerts in the summer, attended by 170,000 gig goers.
In true style, the former Oasis frontman defied expectations, when he announced plans to return to Knebworth, twenty-six years after the Manchester band’s iconic 1996 shows. With the aim to channel the rock ‘n’ roll frontman’s route to the concert destination, the film focuses as much on sharing some personal accounts told by fans, many of whom are UK-based, but as shown, some travelled from as far as Japan, and one conversation was recorded inside a Belgian fan’s home.
The ambition to work from a macro perspective and zoom in on the detail works. Making use of a traditional storytelling structure, the feature-length doc shows the preparation ahead – the stage is built and rehearsals take place – the background stories unfold, and the joy of seeing the performance is felt. Director Toby L knew he wanted to use techniques of modern cinematography in order to achieve current, relevant cinematic effects, and encapsulate the occasion in a contemporary light .
Emerging out of the global Covid-19 crisis, post-pandemic Britain provides the setting that fuels creativity. It inspires the narrative and demonstrates, how the social, economic and political situation affected everybody, as depressed feelings of fragmentation, isolation and emptiness are depicted, the point being that music makes a real difference in the lives of many.
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Sharing the goal of arriving on location and experiencing it all together is represented through exchanges and footage. Through interviews with Liam Gallagher, collaborators, a band member, it switches between the perspective of fans to the perspective of musicians and industry, before the culmination of the gig. Emotionally tuned in, the tragic loss of a family member, the disgruntlement and boredom of being kept inside during lockdowns, and the sense of loneliness, it’s all in there.
The visual presentation of the concert material is raw and compelling, the people who attended may experience the sensation of going back to the landmark location, while those who weren’t able to go are likely to feel as if they did make it. It’s the same difference, and it remains a fulfilling affair.
The effect of supplying behind the scenes clips is fascinating, as an absorbing tale is created in the process. The fact that the singer was prevented from including Oasis songs in the film is resolved with some finesse.
A selfless, inventive effort Liam Gallagher – Knebworth 22 is an intelligent, emotive portrayal made to document the cultural phenomenon. It’s a restorative experience to be remembered by the global community of fans, and the people who gathered in person for one of the pivotal moments in recent live music history, while it looks to the future, embracing new generations of fans who are part of the story.
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Liam Gallagher – Knebworth 22 hits cinemas from November 17th.
Words: Susan Hansen
