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Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa Review
Monday 12th August 2013 | Ben
9/10 for Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa. The career of former sports presenter turned chat show host turned late night Norwich radio DJ Alan Partridge has been such a long commitment by his writers and Steve Coogan, sometimes it feels as though the character has taken on a life of his own. Alan Partidge’s first appearance on the silver screen has been a long time coming and fans can relax in the knowledge that it has been well worth the wait, with enough going on to keep newcomers interested.
The film features a large cast of characters including old favourites such as long suffering PA Lyn, long suffering friend Michael, rival Dave Clifton and sidekick Simon [from Mid Morning Matters]. Joining the fray, among others, are acting heavyweight Colm Meany as fellow DJ Pat Farrell who brings gravitas to the affairs and Four Lion’s Nigel Lindsay as the corporate ‘bully’ who heads the takeover of the Radio Station but takes a liking to Alan. In case it comes up in a Pub Quiz, Lindsay also appeared in the ‘I’m Alan Partridge’ episode ‘Bravealan’ where his walk on character wasn’t so taken with Partridge.
The plot revolves around Meany’s character who, when fired by the new owners of the radio station, tools himself up with a shotgun and takes everyone in the building hostage. The story is concisely told and dispels concerns that the film would be an overlong television episode, with an engaging premise that offers an at times heartfelt experience. The film explores the way that old radio DJs are being over taken by irritating ‘cool’ youngsters, which hits home all the more in the light of Westwood being let go from Radio 1 for the same reasons. There is also a surprising amount of action in the film, which will appease those who expect bang for their buck, with shootouts, explosions and chases.
Long term Partridge enthusiasts may notice a slight shift in tone during the film, as Alan is not as cringe worthy or awful as he is known to be. While there are a few standout moments of Partridge crassness, by and large he is seen as a great deal more popular than the man who failed to sell a single copy of his ironically titled autobiography ‘Bouncing back’ or who only turned up to a funeral to try to get a job. Instead Partridge is seen commanding the hostage situation, winning over the new boss and even involved in a dash of romance. While Partridge is more likeable than usual, the writers do not betray the essence of his character by having him become a balls to the wall action hero.
The dialogue is snappy and full of wonderful quotable moments; the script also places Coogan’s character in the modern day with some tongue in cheek references to Youtube clips. The direction is good without being particularly stylish, allowing the characters and events to represent themselves without distracting audience attention with needless flashy techniques. That being said there are some dramatic shots showing landscapes in Norfolk and revealing more of Alan’s homeland, something that was not possible in the confines of the TV show.
It is good to see Coogan back with Partridge, while the Mid Morning Matters shorts were good they didn’t allow for a great deal of variety due to their format so the film is a welcome return with a solid plot, great script and lots of laughs.
By Ben Lawrence
