Take It or Leave It review: this 1981 docufictional comedy vividly captures the formative adventures of Madness, the future pop princes. Directed by Dave Robinson, the film offers an unexpectedly revealing and often funny look at the band's rise from penniless blokes to chart-topping national treasures.
A Vividly Atmospheric Journey
The film takes us from Madness's beginnings in 1976 to their chart breakthrough. We follow the gormless, penniless band members as they obsess about music and roam north London's gritty districts of Camden Town, Stoke Newington, and Crouch End. The droll dialogue, such as "They're all the same, these streets" … "That's why they put signs on them," adds a layer of humor to their struggles.
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From Dole to Stardom
Our naughty, dodgy heroes play people's parties, sign on the dole, and do mortifying odd jobs. They get told off by site foremen and office supervisors, drive to gigs in Arthur Daley vans, almost get into fights with skinheads, and have calamitous arguments with the drummer during rehearsals. It could have carried on like that indefinitely, but the arrival of Graham "Suggs" McPherson as singer is the mysterious ingredient around which everything coalesces.
The Suggs Effect
Suggs's voice miraculously ups the band's game, apparently curing their worrying propensity for playing flat. His vocals mesh with the reggae thump of the keyboards and sax and the rest of the band's goofy jogging-on-the-spot stage energy. Given the wacky flying-sax videos for which Madness were once renowned, directed by Dave Robinson, the Stiff Records co-founder who also directed this feature, the film is a visual treat.
Key Takeaways
- Authentic portrayal of Madness's early struggles and camaraderie.
- Suggs's arrival as the turning point that propelled the band to stardom.
- Vividly atmospheric depiction of late-70s London.
- Humor and heart in equal measure, making it an engaging watch.
Comparison with Other Music Documentaries
| Film | Band | Year | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Take It or Leave It | Madness | 1981 | Docufictional comedy |
| This Is Spinal Tap | Spinal Tap | 1984 | Mockumentary |
| A Hard Day's Night | The Beatles | 1964 | Musical comedy |
FAQ
What is Take It or Leave It about?
It's a 1981 docufictional comedy that chronicles the early years of the band Madness, from their formation in 1976 to their chart breakthrough.
Who directed Take It or Leave It?
The film was directed by Dave Robinson, co-founder of Stiff Records and director of many of Madness's music videos.
Why is Suggs's arrival significant?
Graham "Suggs" McPherson's arrival as singer is portrayed as the turning point that elevated the band's musicality and stage presence, leading to their eventual success.
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