🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Declan Lowney
- Genre: Comedy, Crime
- Release year: 2013
- Runtime (length): 1h 30min
- IMDb rating: 6.9/10 (35K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 86%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
A narcissistic radio DJ inadvertently causes a hostage situation at his workplace because he’s too busy trying to save his own job, resulting in a hilarious but awkward negotiation process involving firearms, pizza, and questionable fashion choices.
🍿 Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Radio Station Takeover
Alan Partridge, a radio DJ at North Norfolk Digital, faces uncertainty when a corporate conglomerate buys the station. The new owners plan to rebrand it as ‘Shape’ and implement staff redundancies, threatening Partridge’s position.

Betrayal and Hostage Situation
Fearing for his job, Partridge promises to advocate for fellow DJ Pat Farrell. However, when Partridge learns it’s either him or Farrell facing redundancy, he selfishly suggests Farrell be sacked. This betrayal leads to Farrell taking the radio station staff hostage at the launch party.

Negotiation and Chaos
Partridge finds himself as the intermediary between Farrell and the police. He envisions himself as a heroic figure, but his bumbling nature and ego-driven actions complicate the situation. The attempts to resolve the siege result in a series of chaotic and humorous events.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Alan Partridge (Steve Coogan): A narcissistic and tactless radio DJ who finds himself in the middle of a hostage situation.
- Pat Farrell (Colm Meaney): A disgruntled radio DJ who takes his colleagues hostage after being unfairly sacked.
- Lynn Benfield (Felicity Montagu): Alan’s long-suffering and underpaid assistant, who provides unwavering support despite his often inappropriate behavior.
- Side Kick Simon (Tim Key): Alan’s loyal, albeit somewhat hapless, co-presenter who is caught up in the hostage situation.
- Michael (Simon Greenall): Alan’s faithful Geordie friend who follows him even when being held hostage.
- Angela Ashbourne (Monica Dolan): A North Norfolk Digital colleague who catches Alan’s eye, resulting in an awkward and self-serving pursuit.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Alan Partridge: “You can keep Jesus Christ. That was Neil Diamond… truly the ‘King of the Jews’.” – Alan attempts a controversial yet humorous statement during his radio show.
- Alan Partridge: “Go to London. I guarantee you’ll either be mugged or not appreciated. Catch the train to Norwich, sir!” – Alan promotes Norwich over London with his characteristic local pride and slightly skewed view of the world.
- Alan Partridge: “Needless to say, I had the last laugh.” – Alan says this line in a promotional video about the fictional siege, as it plays in the background Michael jumps off Cromer Pier
💰Box Office
- Budget: Unknown
- Domestic Gross: $153,426
- Worldwide Gross: $9,979,601
💥 Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa Reviews
Personal Review
As a long-time Alan Partridge fan, I went into Alpha Papa with high expectations, and it largely delivered. The film perfectly captures Alan’s cringe-worthy personality and his obliviousness to social cues. The scene where he tries to escape through the window and loses his trousers had me in stitches. I also enjoyed the dynamic between Alan and Pat. It’s not perfect, but definitely worth watching for any Partridge aficionado. The quick wit and awkwardness make it all gold.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of British comedy”
- “Admirers of Steve Coogan”
- “Viewers familiar with the Alan Partridge character”
- “Those who enjoy cringe comedy”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Mild violence”
- “Some language”
- “Suggestive humor”
Professional Reviews
- Empire Magazine: “Alpha Papa successfully transplants the awkward brilliance of Alan Partridge to the big screen. While the plot is somewhat thin, Coogan’s performance and the constant stream of quotable lines make for a thoroughly entertaining experience.
- The Guardian: “The film captures the essence of Partridge, but it feels stretched. The siege plot allows for some great physical comedy, but the sharpness of the original TV series is occasionally lost in the wider scope.
- IGN: “Alpha Papa doesn’t reinvent the character, but it delivers exactly what Partridge fans want: awkward situations, cringe-worthy one-liners, and a healthy dose of British humor. Colm Meaney adds great support.
Audience Reactions
Viewers loved the constant stream of Partridge-isms and quotable lines.: The film is hilarious and true to the spirit of the TV series.
The dynamic between Alan and Lynn provided consistent laughs and cringe.: The chemistry among the cast is brilliant and well-executed.
Overall Consensus: Alpha Papa is a successful transition of Alan Partridge to the big screen, praised for its humor and Coogan’s performance. While some find the plot thin, fans generally agree that it’s a must-watch for Partridge enthusiasts.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “The film’s title, ‘Alpha Papa’, was chosen after a public vote. Other options included ‘Alan Partridge and the Second Crack’, ‘Colossal Alan’, ‘Mid Morning Matters with Alan Partridge’, and ‘The Alan Partridge Movie’.”
- “Several scenes were filmed in Cromer, Norfolk, lending authenticity to the North Norfolk setting.”
- “The film features a cameo from the band Marillion, referencing a joke about an ex-drummer of the band being ‘uncool’.”
🖥️ How to Watch Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa?
Currently, “Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa” is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play Movies. Availability may vary depending on your region. Check local listings for broadcast options as well.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa, you might like these similar films:
- Dog Day Afternoon (1975): Shares the premise of a chaotic and somewhat absurd siege situation, although ‘Alpha Papa’ is a comedy.
- The Parole Officer (2001): Also starring Steve Coogan, this British comedy showcases his talent for awkward and cringe-worthy humor.
- Four Lions (2010): Another British dark comedy that finds humor in a serious and tense situation.
- This Is Spinal Tap (1984): Both are mockumentaries of British culture that rely on improvisation and character-driven comedy.
🛒 Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa Related Products
- Alan Partridge: Nomad: A hilarious travelogue following Alan Partridge on a journey of self-discovery across the UK, filled with awkward encounters and signature Partridge humor.
- Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa – Limited Edition Blu-Ray: Collector’s edition featuring behind-the-scenes footage, deleted scenes, and an exclusive interview with Steve Coogan about the making of the film.
- Alan Partridge ‘Dan!’ T-Shirt: Officially licensed ‘Dan!’ t-shirt, featuring Alan’s iconic catchphrase. Available in various sizes and colors.
- Knowing Me, Knowing You…Alan Partridge: Series 1 & 2 [DVD]: Step back into the original show with Steve Coogan as Alan Partridge at his best!
🎧 Soundtrack
Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
The film revolves around Alan Partridge, a radio DJ, who finds himself in the middle of a hostage situation after a colleague he betrayed takes over their radio station. He then tries to navigate this chaos while also boosting his own career.
The movie was primarily filmed in Norfolk, England, including locations like Cromer for the pier scene.
Yes, it is based on the character Alan Partridge, who has appeared in various radio and television shows since the early 1990s.
🔥 Bonus Content
Alan Partridge On The Royal Baby: I Like The Name Brian
Ever wondered what Alan Partridge thinks about current events? Here he is at the Alpha Papa premiere suggesting baby names for the royals – classic Partridge!
Steve Coogan looks back on his best (and worst) movie roles
Want to hear Steve Coogan’s thoughts on his diverse roles, including Alan Partridge? He shares some fascinating insights and behind-the-scenes stories – definitely worth a watch!
ALAN PARTRIDGE ALPHA PAPA deleted scene – Firing Lynn
Missed out on some Partridge gold? Check out this hilarious deleted scene where Alan attempts to fire Lynn! Trust me, you’ll laugh.
Michael Fassbender quoting Alan Partridge
Who knew Michael Fassbender was an Alan Partridge fan?! Check out this clip of him doing a Partridge impression. It’s brilliant!
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