Director: Declan Lowney
Writers: Peter Baynham (based upon characters created by),  Peter Baynham (screenplay)
Stars: Steve Coogan,  Colm Meaney,  Tim Key

When TV shows make the leap to the big screen, it’s like trying to fit an elephant into a Mini Cooper – usually messy and not pretty. “The Simpson’s Movie” and David Brent’s “Life on the Road” left me feeling like a disappointed matchmaker. So, when “Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa” came around in 2013, I had my reservations. However, being a fan of Steve Coogan for a quarter-century and Alan Partridge for just as long, I couldn’t resist the curiosity of seeing them on the silver screen.

Coogan and Peter Baynham cleverly primed the audience with the release of “Mid Morning Matters” on Sky TV, ditching the laughter track that felt like an overused clingy friend in “I’m Alan Partridge” series 1 (1997) and series 2 (2002). This move, I believe, paved the way for “Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa” to have a smooth landing and a shot at success.

In this escapade, Norfolk’s iconic DJ, Alan Partridge, finds himself caught in the chaos when his radio station undergoes a corporate makeover, leading to a potential hostage situation. Alan, ever the opportunist, sees this as a chance to impress and move up the career ladder. While the plot might not be the brainchild of a master strategist, it serves its purpose as a simple yet funny hostage scenario.

Coogan, who knows Partridge like the back of his hand, delivers a performance that transcends the flimsy plot, making the movie not only watchable but intriguing. The absence of complex subplots is compensated by the character’s familiarity for long-time fans who “get” what Alan is all about.

The return of Alan’s loyal PA Lynn, portrayed by Felicity Montagu, after over a decade, was a delightful surprise. Montagu seamlessly slips back into the character, bringing back the charm we remember. Michael, played by the brilliant Simon Greenall, also makes a return, albeit in a somewhat forced role. Despite this minor hiccup, the film maintains its nostalgic charm.

Tim Key’s sidekick Simon from “MMM” is a brilliant addition, providing a stark contrast to Alan’s persona. His one-liners, coupled with the odd gun-holstering hat, contribute to the film’s humorous fabric. Colm Meaney’s portrayal of sacked DJ Pat Farrell adds a unique and disturbingly funny element to the mix, making him the perfect fit for the role.

As Coogan and Meaney share ample screen time, their on-screen chemistry is a highlight. Scenes like Partridge’s fantasy about a rescue job involving multiple “Jasons” unmasking themselves – including “Jason Argonaut” – deliver laughs that linger.

“Alpha Papa” is sprinkled with witty lines that hit the mark, making it a delightful watch. While it may not surpass the brilliance of “Knowing Me, Knowing You with Alan Partridge,” it certainly holds its own. Coogan and Baynham have crafted an amusing movie about a beloved British character, proving that it’s possible to take a familiar face from our screens and give them a refreshing and entertaining new dimension. If you haven’t watched “Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa,” I’d wholeheartedly recommend it – a worthy addition to the Partridge legacy.

Follow @StephenJohn76