Alan Partridge (2013) User Reviews (108)

Enjoyable but over-rated

[cathalokane · 6/10 · 23 August 2013]

I am huge Alan Partridge fan but despite this, I went into this film with slight trepidation as I don't think I can remember a TV-Film comedy transition that ever managed to really capture the magic of the TV version.

Alas it is the same story again here.

For me, the series of Alan Partridge where he lives in the motel, is one of the greatest comedy series of all time (C*** P*** Partridge), and the follow up series with him living in the caravan is every bit it's equal (Dan!!?). The recent radio shorts are also pretty good.

However, the magic of Alan is missed just slightly in the movie. As is always the case with these crossovers, the cinema transition seems to demand a higher pacing of the comedy along with the more bombastic production generally, and this doesn't really sit well with Alan. You need to be able to watch his every facial expression, and capture every word of his dialogue and just take in the hilarity of his view of the world. Likewise, his supporting characters have all been unique in their own ways, but in this big screen version they have been almost caricatured and stripped of any real wit or supporting merit. Michael is particularly disappointing in this regard but Lynn's involvement is also slightly... pointless and over-the-top when she is used.

I found the whole cinema experience a little bit tiresome and that's the first time I've ever said that about anything with Alan Partridge in it. This is a decent film, and fans will find lots to titter at, but I would be surprised if there is anything truly memorable when we look back in a few months time. Even after first watch, there isn't a phrase I can pick out that will stick in my mind, and that's the really disappointing thing.

The three-quarters full audience of my cinema in SW London seemed to enjoy it but there were no extended belly laughs - just murmurs of laughter spotted throughout, and one almost sensed that we were all collectively colluding in really wanting this film to be better than it actually was by lending our laughs. I'll give it another try on the small screen and perhaps my mind will change but until then, and after first watch, this is a slightly disappointing 6/10.

I am certainly not the best one to review this one...

[planktonrules · 7/10 · 26 July 2014]

While I have a bazillion reviews to my credit here on IMDb, I must tell you up front that I am not the best person to be reviewing this movie. This is because I have never seen the TV series on which this film is based and I am not particularly familiar with Steve Coogan. So, unlike many viewers, this is my first time and I cannot compare the movie with the show.

The film begins with some corporate folks coming to the radio station where Alan (Coogan) works. They are there to make changes and he and the staff are pretty scared. It appears that Alan is the big change and he's going to be let go. But, being a weasel, he manages to focus their attention on someone else--Pat Farrell (Colm Meaney). However, when Pat is instead fired, he loses it and goes on a shooting spree. He also takes a bunch of hostages and it's up to Alan to try to help the police to get the folks out alive. However, being a weasel, he also hopes to gain a lot of attention for himself and thus improve his ratings! In fact, as the film progresses, you really see that this is Partridge's #1 goal.

This movie is a very funny and EXTREMELY dark comedy. Such topics are usually NOT the basis for a comedy and the film manages to tackle a sick topic like this and still make it very watchable. However, at times, the film does have a few lulls--not serious ones but the pacing could have been just a bit better. Worth seeing--especially if you like your humor pitch black in tone.

hilarious Coogan

[SnoopyStyle · 8/10 · 24 December 2014]

Radio DJ Alan Partridge (Steve Coogan) works at a local station in Norwich. They are taken over by a big corporation. He crashes a board meeting and discovers that it's either him or Pat Farrell (Colm Meaney). He backstabs Pat who gets fired. Later Pat comes back with a gun to take over the station. Pat demands to talk through Alan in exchange for three hostages. The cops press Alan into the radio station.

I was a bit concerned when shoots were fired but the movie never missed a beat. It kept the quick fire jokes going. I'll be honest that I've never heard of Alan Partridge. Although Steve Coogan has obviously honed in on the character. His machine gun delivery is really sharp. Even if you miss one joke, the next one is coming right on top of you. Colm Meaney has the high energy to keep up with Coogan.

Pretty funny but much less so than the TV series

[Red-Barracuda · 7/10 · 8 August 2013]

There have been numerous movie versions of popular British TV series over the years. And the results have by and large not been good. Most of the time, they seem to go on holiday. At the very least, they always make the story 'more cinematic'. They involve the sitcom characters in a larger than life story. Or they go to Spain. I've never understood the logic of this approach, as the sitcoms are popular in the first place for being about a particular small-scale situation. Once the characters are transported out of this, a crucial part of what makes them work in the first place is lost. I can't help but think that film-makers continually mis-read the public on this point. What we want in a film version of a loved TV show is more of the same but for 90 minutes as opposed to 30. This leads on to Alan Partridge.

'I'm Alan Partridge' was in my opinion one of the funniest TV series ever devised. In particular the first season was comedy gold from start to finish. So, what of the movie version? On the whole it was pretty funny but it did feel the need to incorporate a 'big story' into the narrative. Again, this makes no real sense, seeing as Alan himself is so very amusing because he is a mediocre TV presenter who lives in a realistic world. The humour comes out of the fact that his situations are believable and mundane. In this film the writers have felt the need to involve him at the centre of an armed siege and he gets involved in life or death situations. In a similar way to the 'Are You Being Served?' team going to the Costa del Sol for a group holiday, this story is not true to the character and doesn't really play to his strengths. The storyline is overall a little lame and it awkwardly fits in important characters from the series like Michael and Lynn – both of whom aren't very well used. Partridge himself is funny – very funny at times – but even he isn't really on top form, simply because the writing isn't as good as the TV series. Steve Coogan is always worth watching though and anything with Partridge is as well so the movie is worth seeing if you are a fan of either. It's still a good enough comedy but just pales a bit considering the quality of the TV show and the unnecessarily unPartridge-like story-line. So, overall it's pretty funny but like all cinematic versions of British TV series, a little frustrating overall; although in fairness, it's one of the better attempts but probably only due to the genius of the Partridge character.

This film is hotter than the sun...

[knowledgefiend · 4 April 2014]

I love Alan Partridge. Great show. Great character. He is a man for the ages... However, all series do not translate well into film, and if you're like me, you're hopeful but hesitant.

Well, I'm happy to say that the film preserves the characters, humor and dynamics of the show. Although in the first fifteen minutes or so I wasn't quite 'sold' that this is the Alan I know, the Alan I've come to love; the film really finds it's stride once the siege starts.

We've seen peevish Alan. We've seen cowardly Alan. It is only now--in this film--that we bear witness to heroic Alan, and I'll be damned if he isn't somewhat, reasonably heroic...

To sum up, the story fits Alan and doesn't venture outside it's station (a lesson that certain secretaries should learn well). It really plays to the series strengths and has some of the best Alan moments we've seen. All of that being said, I'm not sure how those unfamiliar with Alan Partridge will feel about the film, as it does cater to fans of the series for the most part.

He is SiegeFace

[The_moan_of_all_moans · 7/10 · 8 August 2013]

Steve Coogan is one funny guy; he really is funny. He has this quirky sense of humour that is rare. His comedy can range from dry to outrageous. And in regards to this film you see all the variations. It's almost constant; one liners, funny voices,crazy faces, witty remarks, smart references.

It is an enjoyable story which shows how something as simple as a dj's grievance over losing his job can create a barrage of laughs.

Yes, it isn't Coogan's best work, but was good to see Alan Partridge in a motion picture. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good laugh and doesn't mind a bit of silly comedy.

Felt like a British Anchorman with the constant over the top antics and the make-it- up-as-you-go feel. I really liked it.

[cosmo_tiger · 7/10 · 11 May 2014]

"I'm trying to save your head, shoulders, knees and toes." Alan Partridge (Coogan) is a famous DJ who works for a station that has just been bought out. When rumors about firings begin to swirl his friend and co-worker Pat Farrell (Meaney) thinks he is on the list so he does the only reasonable thing, he takes the station hostage. It is up to his friend Alan to defuse the situation, but things don't go as planned. I have never seen him do this character before so I was sure what to expect from this. Almost immediately I was laughing and that continued throughout the movie. There is quite a bit of British humor in this but it is more main stream American then say a Monty Python or Shaun Of The Dead is. Coogan is great in this and I wouldn't hate if they made more movies with this character. The easiest way to describe this is like a British Anchorman with the constant over the top antics and the make-it- up-as-you-go feel. This isn't a movie for everyone but I really thought it was funny and I recommend this. Overall, very funny movie, I really liked it a lot, but again it's not a comedy for everyone. I give this a B+.

The Best Film Ever Made Ever

[mrwag-757-964031 · 10/10 · 5 August 2013]

Now let me get this straight. I'm not Alan Partridge. I didn't decide one Monday afternoon, while eating a double decker, to come on to IMDb and give a review. That would be illegal. Neither am I plugging double deckers. They're really nice though, and I reckon Jesus would probably eat them. I digress. Alpha Papa is amazing. Alan Partridge will surely get the Oscar nod for best actor. If you thought Brokeback Mountain was stunning (I didn't) then you'll bend over backwards to watch this. Alan doesn't play a gay cowboy, but rather a non-gay radio show presenter who ends up in a siege (sorry about the spoiler). And he doesn't die at the end either like Bruce Willis in Sixth Sense, or the dog in Bob Marley and Me. No, he lives after enduring what can only be described as an epic battle of man versus another slightly crazy man, who looks a bit like that bloke off Star Trek with the fake Irish accent. Anyway...don't waste your time watching Monsters University or the slightly camp Wolverine who has knives and forks for hands. Watch a real man in action giving the performance of his life.

Like it? I loved it!

[natashabowiepinky · 7/10 · 17 April 2014]

First things first... I hear, for some people, Alan Partridge is the epitome of irritating. I've heard him described as one of the most hated TV characters of all time. However, with only this movie for reference, I have to say I strongly disagree. True, he is a bit full of himself and has a tendency to say inappropriate things... but who doesn't? He's certainly FAR more appealing than the 'young and hip' brigade that want to fire him after they've taken over his Norwich radio station. Was his persona here toned down from his TV shows? I haven't a clue... he just comes across as a slightly dotty, but ultimately charming middle aged bloke.

There's are lots of little laughs everywhere, and Steve Coogan is a master of understated wit. Keep your ear trained for some of the best gags. Colm Meaney also makes an impact as the Irish DJ, who must be the most non-threatening hostage taker in history. But being such a fan of Star Trek Deep Space Nine, it's hard to imagine him as anything but the bumbling Miles O'Brien. Oh well, that's my problem. Another laudable aspect is the hearkening back to the old ways of telecasting: when you could say stuff on the airways, without every word being scanned by a committee. AND you could play music that wasn't on the 'approved' list.

Hi, Al? My request is The Chicken Song by Spitting Image. Go on, fire it up. 7/10

Very funny. Won't disappoint Partridge fans

[MattyGibbs · 10/10 · 9 August 2013]

As a fan of Alan Partridge I was looking forward to seeing this and I wasn't let down. I'm not sure what people who haven't seen the TV shows will make of it but for fans this is a big treat.

The plot is pretty flimsy but when you have a character like Alan Partridge you really don't need much of one. The jokes and laughs keep flowing and whilst some miss the mark there are plenty of scenes that will have tears running down your face. Some of the old favourites like Lynn and Michael (slightly superfluous in this) are here but this is all about Alan.

It plays like a very long version of an episode but it's face paced enough to never get tedious and the film just flies by. This is a film that can be enjoyed by anyone and may even garner a new generation of Partridge fans.

Alpha Papa is a comedy that actually makes you laugh and is highly recommended.

So-So Comedy Film Featuring Coogan's Monstrous Creation

[l_rawjalaurence · 6/10 · 15 January 2014]

Whether you like ALPHA PAPA depends very much on whether you like Steve Coogan's monstrous creation Alan Partridge. The setting once again is Norwich, eastern England, where Partridge works as a DJ on the mid-morning slot. He inadvertently becomes involved in a hostage crisis when his erstwhile colleague Pat (Colm Meaney) holds some of the radio station employees, having been deemed surplus to requirements by the new owners. Needless to say Partridge exploits the situation for his own ends, as he tries his best to enhance his media image while ostensibly working with the police to resolve the crisis. The script gives Coogan plenty of comic opportunities, as well as allowing Partridge to show- once more - just what an obnoxious person he actually is. However the film runs out of steam about two-thirds of the way through, and comes to rely for its effect on tired toilet jokes. The ending is a happy one - needless to say - but this viewer has to admit that they were relieved when it came.

Cash Back!

[firefly900 · 9/10 · 7 August 2013]

Every die hard Partridge fan will love Alpha Papa. Although as usual the adverts/trailers did show a lot of the funny moments so as they were coming on screen you find yourself thinking & leading in to it.

Partridge has always been brilliant with the one liners and to show so many of them during the trailers was pretty bad form.

Saying that though, it was still great. Great to see Lynn & Micheal again, although there was not much of Micheal in the movie his scenes were still pretty funny.

I went to see it on its first day out in Ireland and so far there's no reviews of the title on IMDb, so im wondering where the low score has come from.

It currently stands at 7.2..... and the visual diarrhea of "This is the End" stands at 7.8... So clearly there is something wrong with the system if any Alan Partridge product rates lower than something written By Seth rogen.

But then again.... that will always be the problem with Alan. It is and he is too intelligent for the masses.

Steve Coogan and Colm Meany played their roles very well, and all in all it was a delight to watch.

Text-book! Back of the net.

Good fun, with a few laugh-out-loud moments

[adam-scrivner · 7/10 · 14 August 2013]

I wasn't a huge fan of Alan Partridge on the telly, but certainly found him to be moderately entertaining when there was nothing else to watch. That said, as soon as I saw the trailer for Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa I was intrigued, and had to go to see it.

Pretty much everything about this film was a pleasant surprise, from the well-chosen supporting cast to the occasional unintentional side-splitting comments from Alan. And as for the situations in which he finds himself, well, at least twice during the picture I was actually crying with laughter. Sadly though, there were moments when it wasn't really clear where the plot was going, but these were few and far between.

Steve Coogan and Colm Meaney turned in strong performances, and there were moments of genuine hilarity, but I couldn't help but think that the plot could have done with a little more fleshing out. Overall this film is definitely worth seeing, and is certainly more entertaining than anything else that has been released so far this summer.

A Pale Shadow of the Original Incarnation

[TimMeade · 5/10 · 24 October 2013]

There is a long and far from noble history of British television comedy shows 'spinning-off' into cinema release feature films.

It was an extremely popular exercise in the early to mid 1970s when On the Buses, Till Death Us Do Part, Are You Being Served?, Bless This House and a host of other popular television shows were given the big screen treatment.

Invariably, the transitions were pretty cringe worthy. Most of the films were mediocre at best and, in the main, absolutely woeful. Notwithstanding, some of them were commercial hits. In 1971, On the Buses was the top earner at the British box office proving more popular than such classic films as The French Connection and Diamonds Are Forever. Perhaps it was no coincidence that the next film in the Bond Series featured a London Routemaster bus getting well and truly smashed up.

But then, like lava lamps and flared trousers, these low-budget, low-brow films fell from fashion. Seemingly embarrassed by such hoi-polloi crowd pleasers, British film-makers entered a prolonged phase of making movies that everybody liked except the public. Hands up anyone who ever paid money to see a Peter Greenaway film? And then it started again. The Inbetweeners was first off the block. Following the tradition of its 1970s forebears, it took its characters from their normal domesticity and sent them off on holiday (Holiday On the Buses, 1973, Are You Being Served?, 1977). The result was an over-extended but far from execrable film which proved commercially successful and paved the way for more to follow.

It is on this background that Steve Coogan has resurrected his egregious creation, the broadcaster Alan Partridge.

Originally a character created on BBC radio, Alan Partridge came to greater public attention in the ground-breaking 1994 television comedy series, The Day Today. His insufferable persona proved popular and enduring with the public and his own television series followed. Alan Partridge was in many ways a precursor to Ricky Gervais's David Brent in The Office - superficial and narcissistic with an elevated opinion of his own worth; the humour of both characters stemmed from mundane social embarrassment where they were totally oblivious to their own failings and inadequacies. When Steve Coogan took an unnecessary swipe at the David Brent character in the media, it was difficult not to be drawn to the conclusion that there was professional jealousy at its root.

Twenty years on, Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa, finds him working for North Norfolk Digital Radio. He has clearly been unable to re-invent himself for the modern era. His always dated style of broadcasting is now even more toe-curlingly appalling. Had the film simply developed this thread of humour – a fish out of water, old fashioned, tie and blazer badge Tory totally unaware that the world had moved even further on, they may have mined some good comedic ideas. Unfortunately, this concept went begging.

Faced with possible redundancy, Partridge shafts his friend and colleague Pat Farrell (Colm Meaney) to ensure that it is the Irishman that gets the sack. Unhinged by his retrenchment, Farrell returns to the radio station during a party armed with a shotgun and holds the staff hostage. Partridge is drafted in by the Police as a negotiator.

There were some early laughs as the film unfolded but these became fewer and more isolated as the film progressed and the storyline became more preposterous and farcical. There were some odd flashes of the old Partridge magic. The scene where he can't help playing to the small crowd of fans who had gathered outside the station to watch events was laugh out loud funny. But the plot was too thin, the jokes too tired, the direction too pedestrian and the whole premise just too lame.

Alan Partridge is a great comic creation. But if you want to see him at his best, I suggest you get the box sets of The Day Today and Knowing Me, Knowing You. Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa is a pale shadow of these classic comedies.

Loses the character in the narrative but is still mostly funny

[bob the moo · 13 December 2013]

Although comedic creations will never get the credit given to dramatic ones, I do consider Alan Partridge to be one of the finest modern characters because of how well developed he is internally and how well Coogan gets him. Partidge is an awful person but he is a normal one at the same time, which makes him all the more realistic in his actions. As a character he is never better than when we are closest to him, to see and appreciate his motives and his feelings – all of which are funny in their awful ways. The problem with this film then, is that we don't get that close often enough because there is a bigger plot to serve and move things forward.

This plot does still produce an engaging story but the film is best in its smaller, awkward moments where Alan's bravado crumbles into reality ("I never knew my mother either") or his selfish, egotistical self comes out in the smallest gestures (his dawning horror when he struggles to find himself on television is brilliant). The film has just about enough of these to work as a Partridge film but not quite enough to make it a great film, instead it is an amusing cinematic outing for a great character, but it is still hard not to feel a little disappointed with that.

The cast are pretty great though. Coogan himself deserved more smaller moments to let his character shine, but whenever he gets them he makes the most of them and is refreshingly free of worry of his own image. Meaney is really good but doesn't overplay or get in Coogan's way. Tim Key, Montagu and others all provide good support, but Coogan is the whole deal and all is well when the focus is on him.

Alpha Papa isn't as great as it could have been and it certainly will not challenge the TV shows for quality, but it is a solid film version, albeit one that is best when it shuns the film narrative and gets close to the human monster of Alan Partridge.

Coogan struggling to recreate the 1997 series of I'm Alan Partridge

[duncan-holding-770-188063 · 6/10 · 20 August 2013]

The First series of I'm Alan Partridge was IMO the greatest comedy series ever seen, Series two less funny and the recent effort on SKY less so still. Now the to the film. wont go other the plot as others have done suffice to say that Coogan himself said he overacted in the second series of the TV show but sadly for him hasn't stopped him overacting again in this film. Which takes the shine off the film somewhat. Some very funny lines but like the sitcoms of the 70s made into films tends to lose its way as the film unfolds. I certainly didn't think it was anywhere near as funny as certain reviewers on here and i suggest now is the time to kill Alan off.

Part-right

[kosmasp · 6/10 · 16 October 2013]

As I watched this on my trip to London and have no previous connection to Alan Partridge I cannot judge this against the series, as another reviewer has done already (at least). I can say that I like Steve Coogan a lot, which was one of the main reasons I wanted to see it. And he is a very funny guy. The premise itself has some very funny moments indeed, though it sometimes goes sour in a heartbeat (for all the wrong reasons that is).

The movie is somewhat based in reality, but it's an Alan Partridge reality. Still there are too many things that are convenient and most of it is really predictable. Weren't it for the charm of the lead actors and their playing of the roles, I think many more would notice that this runs out of steam quickly (story wise). The finale then is very weird (with police acting even weirder, passive/active wise that is) ... a shorter version would've been much appreciated.

Better than expected

[gdg23 · 7/10 · 14 August 2013]

I wasn't expecting great things of this movie, how many times have fantastic TV characters hit the big screen only to lose everything that made them special? So after guzzling my own body weight in KFC deliciousness, and arming myself with a kilo of pick & mix I sat myself down and awaited the inevitable half hour or so of charitable, but rather forced laughter, followed by the hour of quiet dismay and regret at not having waited a couple of months to buy the DVD for 3quid.

But things began well... actually that's not true, things began badly as we were made to sit through 25 minutes of trailers for what looked like a selection of the very worst films ever made. And _then_ things improved. The opening credits are a gem, Alan is driving into Norwich, Roachford 'Cuddly Toy' (inspired selection!) on the stereo, mouthing the words with such conviction that I found myself almost joining in.

We are introduced to the new cut-throat profit-at-all-costs owners of Radio Norwich (now re-branded as Shape FM), Alan is oblivious to the threat the takeover poses to his own position, but other colleagues are feeling less secure. In particular graveyard shift DJ Pat Farrell fears for his job and convinces Alan to talk to the new owners in a bid to secure their futures. Alan eventually agrees, with the inevitable end result that, in a bid for self-preservation, he talks the owners into sacking Pat.

Pat reacts rather badly to his dismissal, and at the launch party for the new re-branded station takes the staff hostage. By a twist of fate Alan is outside at this point, but as the siege unfolds is asked by the police to go back into the building to aid communication with the raving Pat.

From here it pans out probably as you'd expect, but that's good news because by keeping it simple the writers concentrate on gags, and there are enough good ones to keep you chuckling all the way through. It's not all laugh out loud by any means, but there are enough solid laughs that you never feel like the movie is dying.

I guess it helped that I was on a sugar high for most of the film, and of course comedy can really depend on your mood. But for me I felt that most of the jokes worked. It's true that some worked better than others, but it was rare that I felt a big gag failed completely.

It also helps that some of the funniest moments come towards the end, in particular a Bin Laden line that made me laugh uncontrollably at the time, and even as I write this is making me chuckle.

I wouldn't describe this as a classic by any means, but I think it'd bear watching again. Who knows, I might even invest in the DVD after all... at the right price.

Superb... was worried about TV > Cinema Transition... No Need

[pugheaven · 10/10 · 8 August 2013]

Have to say, this is the funniest film I've seen in a fair few years now. I'm a massive Partridge fan but these cinema outings for TV characters can fall on their face... this didn't...

I dragged the wife along who's NOT a fan and even she had tears in her eyes laughing her head off... whole screening was packed and everyone loving it. If you DON'T like Partridge, you won't like this... simple as that... however if you do, be ready for a fantastic film.

Fair play to Coogen and the writers... to keep the character fresh after 20+ years... and then base a whole film at a radio station for 90+ minutes and entertain, that takes some writings. Go watch... you will not be disappointed and it's Partridge at his BEST!

Alan Partridge hits the big screen

[Tweekums · 7/10 · 21 December 2015]

Alan Partridge is a DJ working for a local radio station in Norwich. The station is due to be taken over and rebranded leaving Alan's colleague Pat Farrell worried about his future at the station; Alan offers to talk to the new management team to encourage them to keep Pat… his plans soon change when he realises that they are debating whether Pat of Alan should be sacked; like a true friend Alan ensures that Pat is the one to get the chop! Pat doesn't take his sacking well and returns to the station with a shotgun and takes everybody inside hostage. He demands that Alan returns to act as a go between for him and the police.

Films based on sitcoms frequently prove to be fairly disappointing but I really enjoyed this and found myself laughing out loud. Steve Coogan is great as Partridge; a character who is fun to watch even if he isn't exactly easy to like. The rest of the cast impress too; especially Colm Meaney who, who plays Farrell… a character who is the most sympathetic in the film despite the fact that he is threatening people with a shotgun; the character provides plenty of laughs even though he is played straight. The story starts well and gets better once the siege is underway. It will help if you have watched Alan Partridge on television but I don't think it is essential; it also helps if you know Norfolk… just hearing places like Diss and Holt being mentioned in a movie was enough to make be chuckle and the finale on Cromer pier was great as it mirrored similar, if sunnier, locations in several Hollywood films! Overall I'd recommend this; while some jokes fell flat enough hit the mark to make it a solid comedy.

Laugh a Minute

[plummerrobin · 9/10 · 9 August 2013]

I went to see this with some friends on the day it came out. As a Partridge fan you will not be disappointed. The film contains all the best characters from the TV Series and Steve Coogan's brilliance as Alan just made the film so funny. There are constant one liners, looks, expressions, silly voices almost every minute. Everyone in the cinema was laughing out loud throughout the full 90 minutes.

There is also a great sound track and lots of familiar tunes and the scene during the credits will have you laughing throughout.

Excellent film go and see it even if you are not a Alan Partridge/Steve Coogan fan because it is a generally funny film.

Hit and miss in places (but mainly hits)

[bowmanblue · 7/10 · 11 July 2014]

Steve Coogan has had a chequered history when it comes to starring in films - he's either great, or cringe worthy. However, much of his fame came from spoof radio DJ Alan Partridge, so a film about the man from Norwich is a safe bet.

I have to say I didn't think much of the opening and was wondering what I had let myself in for, but, if you give it about half an hour, the jokes start flowing freely and you'll find yourself laughing out loud more often than not.

If you've never seen Alan Partridge, you should be warned that it's an odd type of humour and maybe you should dip your toe into the various Partridge TV series if you're not too sure whether you'll like it. Basically, if you like the TV shows, you'll like the film. I don't know whether we'll ever see a sequel - hopefully not, as this is probably best left on its own.

http://thewrongtreemoviereviews.blogspot.co.uk/

10 out of 10

[wlrandle · 10/10 · 9 August 2013]

I thought that this wasn't going to be as funny as the TV series as film adaptations never are.

To be frank (i'm not named Frank BTW) - it was hilarious. Cinema was packed at the 21:30 showing (full of men with a few women that had been dragged along - i bet they actually loved it really) and everyone was laughing out loud and tittering every couple of minutes.

The plot worked - initially i thought it wouldn't be able to maintain itself for the films length but it was like an awesomely long episode of Alan. Alan's character actually has enough weight for several films and more interesting formats i think. Alan Partridge the Musical - i would go and see - and i hate musicals.

True brilliance and genius from those who know Alan's mind inside out.

Long live King Alan. The quality shines through - far better than Gervais et al.

So enjoyable!

[petarmatic · 7/10 · 8 March 2014]

I loved this film! I do most of the UK films. Brits have such a sense of humor! It is so cool! Whenever I watch films from the UK I have a good laugh! This is one of those films, where one can relax and enjoy themselves.

I do not know much about Alan Partridge, but I know Colm Meany, I saw him in so many films and TV series. His performance in Star Trek the Next Generation was outstanding. Every role he played he did it so well. What an actor!

Plot is wacky as movie is. Cool stuff!

Acting is wacky as movie is. Cool stuff!

I certainly recommend this film for all of you Alnglophiles and people who enjoy good laugh.

Partridge matters

[Prismark10 · 5/10 · 2 December 2013]

I have been following Alan Partridge since he was just a lowly sports reporter on The Day Today almost 20 years ago.

Since then we have had his disastrous chat show when he ended up hitting the Head of BBC with a turkey in his live Christmas Special.

Then some years later he rebuild his career on the radio whilst living in the Travel Tavern in 'I'm Alan Partridge.'

Partridge now hits the big screen, courtesy of BBC films. Partridge has always been middle of the road, middle aged and conservative.

His creator, Steve Coogan is now almost the same age as his screen persona. Two decades ago, Coogan was still in his 20s when he was inspired by the likes of Alan Titchmarsh to create Partridge.

In Alpha Papa, Partridge works for a Norwich based radio station which has been taken over by a new corporate that intends to fire some of the fuddy duddy presenters.

One of the sacked radio presenter is so aggrieved, he ends up going to the radio station with a shotgun and takes hostages. Partridge finds himself in the middle of a rescue effort.

I expected this to be a humorous version of Dog Day Afternoon. I think I got more laughs at that film than this. There were a few twitters, even a guffaw or two but nothing more.

Colm Meaney and Steve Coogan make a good team as the unhip duo but this would had been better pared down for TV.