Finally! Norwich Alan Partridge gets the big-screen treatment the world has demanded.

While Alan has changed – his hair longer, his waistline larger, his expressions less subtle – Coogan still inhabits him with as much ease and devotion as he did two decades ago.

Accordingly the film is squarely about its titular DJ. If you didn’t like Partridge before, Alpha Papa likely will not change your mind.

Though it peaks early and there is a tendency for scenes to drag, make no mistake: this is no wacky holiday special or three episodes played in quick succession. This is damn fine British comedy.

Back of the net.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Steve Coogan, Colm Meaney, Tim Key

DIRECTOR: Declan Lowney

WRITERS: Peter Baynham, Steve Coogan, Neil Gibbons, Rob Gibbons, Armando Iannucci

SYNOPSIS: With his employment jeopardised, broadcasting legend Alan Partridge sets in motion a chain of events that result in having to work with the police to defuse a potentially violent siege.