AlienRefugee

How refreshing, a reality show that isn't loaded with fake, scripted drama. I'll be completely honest: at first, I just wanted to watch this to laugh at a cute girl swearing and making offensive gestures uncontrollably, because I'm a sick, insensitive guy. But what I actually got was something completely different. It ended up being a genuinely eye-opening experience. It was moving to see a real girl, living her life with honesty and spirit, supported by a family that is wholesome, strong and grounded. It's rare these days to see something so authentic on television, and even rarer to walk away feeling like you've genuinely learnt something about how others live their life, family and resilience.

James McAvoy shines as always. This movie isn't bad, but having watched the Danish version afterwards, I felt like it could have been the best of both worlds if the chance was given. Neither film are monumentally brilliant as thrillers, horrors or even the drama genre, but the opportunity is there and unfortunately this remake could have stepped up and become the better version if only they hadn't focused on some of the unnecessary additional script and plot lines that are thrown in. It's by no means a bad film though, just fails to grasp the greatness it could've been. Definitely recommend that you check it out.

It has its moments, if by "moments" you mean very light laughter or smiles at some of the jokes and references. In most places though, it's just a cringeworthy performance from one of the greatest comics and finest character actors of our generation (in my opinion).

I wasn't expecting it to be as funny as the Partridge we all know and love, but this is almost like a different character altogether. The sharp wit and awkward charm that made Alan Partridge an iconic figure seem to be missing here. Instead, what we get is a diluted version that leans too heavily on forced gags and an odd attempt to translate the character into a live show - which, if you've seen any of Coogan's live shows in the past you know is certainly possible.

Coogan is quite an underrated musical comic, but the musical numbers here really don't make sense and seem like filler.

The live interaction with the audience, a hallmark of any great comedy special, feels stilted and awkward. There are moments where the cringe is palpable, not because of Partridge's trademark social faux pas, but because the humour falls flat and the attendees seem to be forcing themselves to enjoy what they likely had higher expectations for.

While it's always a pleasure to see Steve Coogan step into the shoes of his characters for live shows again, this special feels more like something to fill the gap in his schedule.