Alan Partridge is unique in more ways than one; his wide range of books and radio shows is unparalleled, but unlike other comic creations, he hasn’t hit a bum note. There’s been no ‘Learn Guitar With David Brent’ moment, no fourth season of Arrested Development.

Alan PartridgePartridge at the premiere of Alpha Papa

It’s been pure entertainment from day one, and Alpha Papa looks to continue this rare tradition. The film enjoyed its premiere in Norwich today after a campaign stripped London of the pleasure, and that’s given the critics a chance to get their reviews in. They’ve not all been submitted yet, but the early ones suggest Alpha Papa is a ball.

“You'd expect an Alan Partridge movie to be funny. You wouldn't expect it to be a coup de cinema. And yet, in its own superficially low-brow, cheapo way, Alpha Papa is exactly that,” say The Guardian. While Digital Spy reckon “It takes a while to get over the strangeness of seeing Partridge on the big screen, but once the siege stirs into motion Coogan excels as Alan haplessly channels Spy Who Loved Me-era Roger Moore.”

Alan PartridgeHe does what he wants, Partridge

Screen International were equally impressed, saying “The wittily scripted Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa is a joy, offering up more quotable lines and amusingly surreal Partridge moments.” Fans of Alan will go and see the film regardless of the reviews, but the fact that the early ones are saying positive things presents a solid start for Partridge’s first film appearance.