Mad Dogs and Englishmen (1971) Review in 2025
A documentary film that follows the British rock band Traffic on their 1970 tour of Australia, featuring stunning footage of the band's performances and behind-the-scenes moments.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to some mature themes and language.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of Traffic and classic rock music, but may not be suitable for young children due to some mature themes and language.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film showcases the band's energetic live performances, but also delves into the personal struggles and tensions within the group, providing an intimate look at the making of their iconic album 'John Barleycorn Must Die'.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The documentary follows the band's 1970 tour of Australia, featuring stunning footage of their live performances and behind-the-scenes moments. The film provides an intimate look at the making of their iconic album 'John Barleycorn Must Die'.
acting5.00/10
The band members' performances are more like themselves than acting, which can be a bit awkward at times. However, their charisma and energy on stage make up for it.
characters6.00/10
The film showcases the band's personalities and interactions, but some characters feel underdeveloped. Steve Winwood and Chris Wood's chemistry on stage is undeniable, but their off-stage tensions are also evident.
direction7.00/10
Christopher Miles' direction is solid, capturing the energy and chaos of the band's live performances. The film's pacing is well-balanced, with a good mix of concert footage and behind-the-scenes moments.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, capturing the vibrant colors and textures of the Australian landscape. The concert footage is also well-shot, with a great sense of energy and movement.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film provides an intimate look at the making of Traffic's iconic album 'John Barleycorn Must Die', with stunning footage of the band's live performances and behind-the-scenes moments.
Cons
Some characters feel underdeveloped, and the film's pacing can be a bit slow at times.
Notable Quotes
"The whole band was on fire that night."
"We were like a bunch of mad dogs, running around and causing chaos."
