In a relatively short space of time, Steve Coogan has worked his way into Britains comedy elite.
), this set the benchmark for his future TV shows to reach.
The shows work so well because they were kept as one-offs.
I doubt a series would have been anywhere near as successful.
If youve never seen them, track them down.
The Calf segments are both excellent but its Duncan Thickett who still gets the best laughs from me.
Best of the lot is his turn as a swimming pool attendant.
(In 1975, no-one died.
In 1976, no-one died.
In 1977, no-one died.
In 1978, no-one died.
In 1979, no-one died.
In 1980, some one died.
In 1981, no-one died.
In 1982, there was the incident with the pigeon.
In 1983, no-one died.
In 1984, no-one died.
In 1985, no-one died …
I mean, I could go on.)
This is Coogans finest hour.
Still, Gareth Cheeseman remains very funny andNatural Born Quizzers, featuring Patrick Marber, is brilliant.
It doesnt work, simply because of a distinct lack of gags.
Unfortunately, this sits alongside Tony Ferrino as it has precious few laughs.
Im Alan Partridge (2002)
Partridge returns for a last and ultimately underwhelming time.
The characters are all there but the plots, and the gags, arent.
That said, sub-par Partridge is still well worth watching.
A short show with many recycled jokes, this is pretty poor stuff.
Great the first time round, the film doesnt really stand up to repeat viewings.
Its still worth tracking down.
(I didnt includeHot Fuzzas his role is so slight its not worth including.)
This is much better than people give it credit for, though.
Not seen:I Am Not An Animal,Tropic Thunder, Around The World In 80 Days
