Radio Times

Review by:

Jack Seale

A guide to the "Wales of the East", Norfolk, by the man who put Norwich on the chat map. Alan Partridge takes us to his workplace, his favoured newsagents and along his regular Thetford Forest walking route. It is, as the man himself says: ‎"A Partridge pilgrimage. A Partrimage. A Pilgrimartridge. A Partrimiligrimage." But he's also keen on Norwich's rich past, including Hitler's plan to give a victory address from the town hall balcony. Imagine that…

Partridge has evolved since Steve Coogan hooked up with co-writers Neil and Rob Gibbons, architects of Alan's sensationally funny autobiography. He can be a vehicle for spoofery – the hysterical history-in-hindsight of Schama, Marr et al gets it in the neck – and, as credited producer/director, his editing hand is now visible.

But he's still thoroughly Partridgean. There's not a weak scene in the hour and many that are worth re-playing for superb nuances of script and performance, from the simple joy of Alan almost falling off a stile to some wordless moments of pathos that remind us he is almost real. Top drawer.

About this programme

Broadcaster Alan Partridge presents a tour of his favourite places in his native Norfolk, including Thetford Forest, his local newsagent, the church where he was christened and Norwich's City Hall. He also reflects on turning points in his life and extols the virtues of his home county, including its natural beauty and sensible parking regulations. Spoof documentary, starring Steve Coogan.

Cast and crew

Cast

Alan Partridge

Steve Coogan

Share this episode