Because, apparently, the world was missing a deluxe edition of a 40-year-old film about Madness, the British Film Institute has seen fit to bless us with a brand new 4K restoration of “Madness: Take It Or Leave It” on Blu-ray/DVD. And, of course, we’re celebrating with a competition to win one of five copies, because what’s a re-release without a little giveaway to get the nostalgia juices flowing? The film, made at the height of Madness mania, is a beautifully chaotic mess, with the band members playing themselves and reliving the highs and lows of their career, all set to a soundtrack of their greatest hits, including “One Step Beyond”, “Night Boat To Cairo”, and “Embarrassment”.
A Look Back at the Making of the Film
The film, shot largely on location in Camden, is a time capsule of the early days of Madness, capturing the streets, pubs, and venues that shaped their unique sound. And, as if the film itself wasn’t enough, the new Blu-ray/DVD release is packed with brand new extras, including newly filmed interviews with Suggs, Mark ‘Bedders’ Bedford, and director Dave ‘Robbo’ Robinson, all looking back on the making of the film more than four decades on. Because, you know, we all need a little more behind-the-scenes action in our lives.
The Restoration Process
The restoration of the film is a labor of love, with a behind-the-scenes look at the process included in the new release. And, because we all love a good music video, the Blu-ray/DVD also includes nine iconic Madness music videos, as well as the original 1981 trailer and a brand new restoration trailer. It’s a treasure trove of Madness memorabilia, and a must-have for any fan of the band.
Win a Copy of the Film
To celebrate the release of “Madness: Take It Or Leave It” on Blu-ray/DVD, Classic Pop has teamed up with the British Film Institute to give readers the chance to win one of five copies. All you have to do is click on the link and enter the competition, and you could be enjoying the film in all its 4K glory. And, as a bonus, you’ll also get to enjoy the brand new extras, including the interviews and music videos.
The Never-Ending Story of Re-Releases
And so, another deluxe edition appears, because that’s just what the world needs. Somewhere, a record label executive felt a disturbance in the royalties, and the remaster economy remains undefeated. But hey, who are we to complain? After all, it’s not like we’ve been here before, with the endless deluxe editions, remasters, and reunion tours. Nope, this is all completely new and original. The farewell tour count has officially entered scientific notation, and music historians are preparing fresh shelves for the box set. A vinyl pressing plant somewhere just burst into tears, and nobody truly retires in this industry – they merely wait for the 40th anniversary edition. Nature is healing, and another deluxe edition has appeared. But hey, at least we get to enjoy some great music along the way. To order your copy of “Madness: Take It Or Leave It” on Blu-ray/DVD, click on the link and get ready to relive the magic of Madness.
Chord F. Discord, the Beethoven of Buffoonery, is a self-taught expert in music who once claimed he could “play the kazoo in four languages.”
Born in Crescendo, Indiana, Chord’s first brush with fame came when he accidentally entered a yodeling contest thinking it was a pie-eating competition—and won both categories.
Chord F. Discord: proving that laughter, much like a poorly tuned ukulele, is truly universal.
⚖️ ENTER THE LEGALIZER
Think the government has no idea what it's doing? Put your case before the Federal Case Terminal and find out.
