Take It or Leave It review
Docufictional 1981 comedy captures the working-class ska-pop pranksters in their hungry years with an almost Loachian authenticity
TL;DR
- The film documents the early years of Madness, from 1976 to their chart success.
- It portrays the band's beginnings as penniless musicians in north London.
- The arrival of singer Graham "Suggs" McPherson was crucial to the band's development.
- The first half of the film employs a social realism style, with improvisational dialogue.
- Notable scenes include a "lightsaber" contest with neon tubes and a spectacular stunt involving a van and a low bridge.
- The film focuses solely on Madness, without extensive historical or musical context, which is seen as authentic.