Alan Partridge (2014): A Comprehensive Overview

About Alan Partridge

The 2014 movie, "Alan Partridge," also known as "Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa" in the UK, is layered with dark humour and wit, portraying the life of a tactless and inept radio host who's faced with a potential career-killing disaster. The story revolves around a corporate takeover of North Norfolk Digital Radio, resulting in co-presenter Pat Farrell's dismissal. This leads to a hostage situation where Alan Partridge's negotiation skills are put to the ultimate test.

Making / Production

Released in February 2014, "Alan Partridge" is written by a team including Steve Coogan, Armando Iannucci, Peter Baynham, Neil Gibbons, and Rob Gibbons. The movie is directed by Declan Lowney and is produced by Baby Cow Productions and British Film Institute (BFI).

Actors

• Steve Coogan plays Alan Partridge, a tactless and narcissistic local radio host. His blend of humor and empathetic portrayal of Alan's inefficiencies makes his performance remarkable.
• Colm Meaney stars as Pat Farrell, a fellow radio disc jockey whose dismissal triggers the gripping hostage sequence. He plays the role with a perfect balance of intensity and humour.
• Felicity Montagu stands out as Lynn Benfield, Partridge's long-suffering personal assistant. She brilliantly portrays an often-overlooked character whose loyalty to Partridge is unwavering.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Although the movie is primarily a comedy, it features an intense hostage sequence, unusually combining genres into a unique blend.
• The film is essentially a spin-off of a popular TV series named, "I'm Alan Partridge".
• Interestingly, the character of Alan Partridge was inspired by radio presenters Richard Madeley and Tony Blackburn.

Awards

In 2014, Steve Coogan was nominated for a BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal of Alan Partridge.

Quotes

• "You can keep Jesus, as far as I'm concerned Neil Diamond will always be King of the Jews." - Alan Partridge
• "I'm sieging the day." - Alan Partridge
• "Alan Partridge: You're the face of this siege. Pat Farrell: I am. Alan Partridge: And who's the face of Al-Qaeda? Pat Farrell: Osama Bin Laden. Alan Partridge: Correct, but he's dead." - Alan Partridge and Pat Farrell

Music, Soundtrack

• The movie score was composed by Ilan Eshkeri and features a mix of original tracks and music from Alan's radio show.
• "Cuddly Toy" by Roachford was humorously used as a theme song throughout the movie.