Oasis Turned Down Trainspotting Because They Thought It Was About Just That

I once wrote an essay about Trainspotting at university (the Irvine Welsh novel, not the film). I got a high 2:1 and can categorically say, to this day, I've still never actually read it.

This suggests one of two things a) I'm a genius or b) university is bullshit.

However, I have at least watched the film so I did have a head start over Oasis. The Gallaghers, according to Noel, turned down the chance to appear in the film about drugs, sex, unemployment and shitting the bed, because they actually thought it was about people spotting trains.

Rachel Fleming, who was a costume designer for the film, said: "I met Noel at a thing the other week, and he said to me 'I would have done something but honestly I thought it was about train spotters. I didn't know'.

"That's what he actually said."

What 'thing' Rachel, what thing? Why wasn't I invited?

Apparently the Gallaghers have made a joint statement saying that when they found out they missed the opportunity because of their mistake they couldn't stop crying their eyes out. However, now they don't look back in anger. They were half the world away when they were asked about the movie, and if they knew it was about cigarettes and alcohol they would have done it. Ultimately, they just had to say 'whatever'. You bored yet?

Boyle said: "I feel very fortunate and grateful to be able to make films, and to be able to always have a choice in what I do.

"Coming back to Edinburgh has actually been really fascinating [and] since filming the first Trainspotting, Edinburgh has changed dramatically. You can see the gentrification massively in the city."

I was in Edinburgh last weekend and can confirm I did not shit myself, or go down a toilet. Pretty bland.

As an aside, I used to work for the world's largest transport magazine group, of which trains are a major component. If you want any hints, tips and inside knowledge on where to spot some trains, get in touch.

If not, enjoy T2 when it's released.

All image credits: Miramax Films