Bridget Jones Forever

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In a previous phase of life, Bridget Jones found herself at age 32. Presently, this fictional character, known for her diaries, TV production, and personal relationships, including widowhood, has reached the age of 51. This detail carries emotional significance rather than broader societal relevance. The fourth film adaptation of Helen Fielding’s works, titled “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy“, takes place around eight years after “Bridget Jones’s Baby” and four years following Mark Darcy (portrayed by Colin Firth)’s death on a humanitarian mission in Sudan. Contrary to popular belief, “Mad About the Boy” is not primarily about love, or at least not the traditional form of it. Instead, it delves into Bridget Jones’ emotional journey beyond romantic relationships.

In simpler terms, Bridget’s life lacks the happiness it once had due to the absence of Darcy and her father. She cherishes her children, Billy and Mabel, but they don’t provide the tranquility, quiet, or freedom she yearns for. After leaving her job to take care of her kids, television news journalism has become less about reporting on serious issues like war and more about cooking segments. This latest film shows Bridget dealing with a world that doesn’t make sense anymore, not just because of her usual clumsy mishaps, but due to larger existential issues. The emotional journey she takes in “Mad About the Boy” is captivating enough to warrant this fourth installment; it’s strong enough to argue for more films featuring Bridget Jones, possibly even a fifth, sixth, and seventh. As long as Bridget continues her life, we should be permitted to join her on her adventures.

The Bridget Jones series has chosen to strengthen its core values rather than compromising them. It’s surprisingly touching to see familiar actors reprising their roles, and the return of Hugh Grant as the roguish Daniel Cleaver only adds to the nostalgia. Alongside Bridget, we have her long-standing friends: the bold Sharon (Sally Phillips), the anxious Jude (Shirley Henderson), and the sarcastic Tom (James Callis). Not forgetting Bridget’s mother (Gemma Jones) and colleague Miranda (Sarah Solemani). As time has passed, these characters now show the signs of aging with wrinkles, lined necks, and not-quite-perfect teeth. This continuity demonstrates that Bridget’s relationships extend beyond her marital tales. Daniel, once a heartthrob, is now more like an old friend to Bridget, someone who has been by her side since the beginning. Such enduring friendships may hold more significance than any boyfriend could offer. Few people can claim such long-lasting friendships in their own lives.

The Bridget Jones series draws inspiration from Jane Austen, known for her intricate marriage plots. What truly makes Austen captivating is her characters’ and her own, infectious appreciation for life. It’s not merely that finding love brings you a partner, but it stirs within you a desire to fall in love with everything around you. In Mad About the Boy, another conventional love triangle arises between Leo Woodall’s charming young Roxster and Chiwetel Ejiofor’s reserved science teacher, Mr. Wallaker; however, the question of which man is better for Bridget holds little significance in what makes the movie exceptional. Mad About the Boy, contrary to its title, focuses more on the madness that ensues from trying, failing, and ultimately learning to move forward with life. Bridget struggles to understand and justify the pain she’s experienced; no one expects her to. All she can do is what she’s always done: immerse herself in the peculiarities and romantic entanglements that have defined her days. The question “Which of these men is suitable for Bridget?” pales in comparison to “How will time continue to unfold for Bridget?

Over the last several years, various film franchises have expanded beyond their original storylines through recasting and reboots, with new actors playing iconic characters such as Batman, Mad Max, Elle Woods, and others. Movies like Twisters, Top Gun: Maverick, Alien: Romulus, and more have introduced a new generation to these classic stories. Unlike these, Bridget Jones remains rooted in our contemporary society and cultural values. Previously plagued by concerns about her weight and wardrobe, Zellweger’s Bridget still occasionally appears disheveled and pajama-clad, and her lifestyle continues to be indulgent, as evidenced by the ample white wine and marshmallows in Mad About the Boy. However, Zellweger’s performance has matured with age and experience. In Bridget Jones’s Baby, the notion of a 40-something Bridget attending a music festival, glamping, and wading through mud seemed absurd to some. Yet, in this film, she experiences fewer indignities associated with aging; she seems more at peace with herself, perhaps less unhappy than before. These films continue to captivate audiences not despite her growing older, but because of it.

As long as the main characters continue to portray their roles with warmth and elegance, there’s no reason we can’t catch up with Bridget Jones every five to ten years from now. The series isn’t just about the individuals involved, but also the environment they inhabit. In essence, Mad About the Boy revolves around Bridget Jones, as her name precedes the colon in the title. However, it also delves into topics like the decline of traditional journalism, elite school parents’ groups, and cosmetic alterations. These films serve as social commentaries because Bridget is a socially conscious person: she empathizes, she reflects, and she keeps a diary. Just like reconnecting with an old friend from two decades ago, Bridget’s familiar struggles will always be intriguing – in fact, they might even feel fresh.

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2025-02-14 18:56