Take It or Leave It Review: Madness's Formative Years

The 1981 docufictional comedy "Take It or Leave It" offers a vividly atmospheric and often humorous portrayal of the formative years of the British ska-pop band Madness. The film chronicles their journey from their beginnings in 1976 to their eventual chart breakthrough, depicting them as penniless young men deeply immersed in music and navigating the gritty districts of north London, including Camden Town, Stoke Newington, and Crouch End. The narrative highlights their early struggles, such as playing at parties, signing on for unemployment benefits, and taking on mortifying odd jobs. The characters face reprimands from site foremen and office supervisors, travel to gigs in vehicles reminiscent of "Arthur Daley vans," and encounter near-confrontations with skinheads. Rehearsals are punctuated by calamitous arguments, particularly with the drummer, suggesting a period where such struggles could have continued indefinitely.

The turning point in the band's trajectory, as depicted in the film, is the arrival of Graham "Suggs" McPherson as the lead singer. His presence is presented as a crucial, almost mysterious ingredient that galvanizes the group. Suggs's vocal talent is credited with elevating the band's performance, seemingly resolving their "worrying propensity for playing flat." His vocals are described as harmonizing effectively with the reggae-infused rhythms from the keyboards and saxophone, complemented by the rest of the band's energetic, if somewhat goofy, stage presence characterized by "jogging-on-the-spot" movements. This coalescing of talent and energy marked a significant shift from their earlier, more uncertain phase.

The film's "docufictional" approach blends documentary elements with fictionalized dramatization, allowing for an "almost Loachian authenticity" in its depiction of working-class life and aspirations. This style enables the movie to capture the raw, unpolished reality of the band members' lives during this crucial period. The dialogue, such as the observation "They’re all the same, these streets," followed by the wry retort "That’s why they put signs on them," contributes to the film's droll and insightful commentary on their environment and experiences. The review suggests that opting to engage with this portrayal of Madness's "hungry years" provides an unexpectedly revealing and engaging cinematic experience.

"Take It or Leave It" focuses on the period before Madness achieved widespread national recognition, emphasizing their dedication to their craft and their resilience in the face of adversity. The film captures the essence of a band on the cusp of stardom, driven by a shared passion for music and a determination to succeed. The review praises the film for its vivid atmosphere and its ability to convey the formative adventures of these future pop princes, ultimately presenting a compelling look at the early days of a band that would go on to become national treasures. The docufictional comedy serves as a testament to their journey from obscurity to fame.