Madness Are Back on the Big Screen with the 4K Restoration of Take It Or Leave It

For fans of Madness, the story behind the band has always been just as entertaining as the music itself. Now, more than 40 years after it first arrived in cinemas, Take It Or Leave It is returning to the big screen in a stunning new 4K restoration, giving audiences the chance to experience the band’s unforgettable journey all over again.

Originally released in 1981, the film takes viewers back to the late 1970s, when seven friends from Camden Town came together with a shared love of music and a dream of creating something special. Before the chart success, the famous videos, and the worldwide recognition, there were rehearsals, day jobs, disagreements, and plenty of laughter.

Restored by the BFI, Take It Or Leave It will return to cinemas across the UK and Ireland from 2 October 2026, released by BFI Distribution. The film will then arrive on BFI Blu-ray/DVD Dual Format Edition on 19 October, marking its first-ever Blu-ray release. Fans will also have the chance to attend a special Restoration World Premiere and Q&A with members of Madness at BFI Southbank’s NFT1 on 30 September at 6.30pm.

The film captures the rise of one of Britain’s most loved bands, from their early days playing small venues to becoming a household name. After the success of their breakthrough single One Step Beyond in 1979, Madness quickly won over audiences with their energetic ska-pop sound, playful humour, and unforgettable music videos.

Rather than simply focusing on fame and success, Take It Or Leave It tells the real story of how Madness came together. It explores the friendships, creative differences, line-up changes, and moments of chaos that shaped the band’s unique identity. It is a story about ordinary people who followed their passion and created something extraordinary.

Featuring the classic Madness line-up of Graham McPherson (Suggs), Mark Bedford (Bedders), Lee Thompson (El Thommo), Carl Smyth (Chas Smash), Dan Woodgate (Woody), Chris Foreman (Chrissy Boy), and Mike Barson (Barzo), the film also features appearances from key figures who helped shape the band’s sound, including Clive Langer, who worked with Alan Winstanley to create the distinctive style fans know and love.

One of the most special things about Take It Or Leave It is how authentic it feels. Directed and produced by Stiff Records founder Dave Robinson, the film was made without a traditional script. Instead, it recreated real events with improvised dialogue, allowing the personalities and humour of Madness to shine through.

The band were deeply involved in bringing their story to the screen. They even contributed to the film’s budget because they believed it was the right way to show where they came from. Their aim was to prove that anyone could pick up an instrument, start a band, and create music that connects with people.

The film also offers a fascinating look at London locations from the band’s early years. Scenes were filmed at Camden’s legendary Dublin Castle, where Madness famously convinced the owners to give them a performance opportunity. Other locations, including Rock On Records and Pathway Studios, capture a part of north London that has since changed forever. Acklam Hall, another location featured in the film, was recreated after the original venue was destroyed by fire.

Of course, no Madness story would be complete without the music. The soundtrack features some of the band’s biggest songs, including One Step Beyond, Night Boat to Cairo, My Girl, Baggy Trousers, and Embarrassment, bringing back the energy that made them one of Britain’s most successful groups.

Although adored by fans, Take It Or Leave It was never widely seen in cinemas when it was first released. This new restoration gives the film the opportunity it always deserved. Using the only surviving 35mm prints and the original Dolby stereo audio mix, the BFI has brought the film back with incredible care and attention.

Following the success of previous BFI music film restorations including Dance Craze and Slade in Flame, the return of Take It Or Leave It is another celebration of the power of music on the big screen.

Whether you have been a Madness fan since the beginning or are discovering their story for the first time, this is a chance to revisit the humour, friendship, and creativity behind one of Britain’s most iconic bands. Take It Or Leave It is not just a film about Madness. It is a reminder of what can happen when a group of friends decide to chase a dream.