I slept in very late on a recent Sunday and woke up around 11am. I had some coffee and sat down to have a quick breakfast/lunch and switched on my television. I happened to land on a channel that plays older movies on weekends. Bridget Jones’s Diary.…from 2001 was about to begin. I thought I would just watch snippets as I began my day, as I had seen the feature many times before. Instead, I ended up watching the entire movie. That is the fascination of this classic romantic comedy, Bridget Jones’s Diary. I am drawn to it, like a cat to catnip.
I first saw this movie when it came out in the movie theatre in 2001. I went to the movies with ‘my love’. In those days, going to the movies was one of our favorite pastimes. We went to the neighborhood cinema. I think he wanted to see another movie that I was not a big fan of – some sort of trilogy. I slipped away from that viewing and went in search of another movie. (that was possible at that time in that theatre, maybe not anymore) So, I decided to go take a peek at this new movie – ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary.’ I was so entranced that it took me some time to tear myself away. I went back to the movie screening of the trilogy and told ‘mon amour’ that I think I would stay and watch this other feature….’Bridget Jones’s Diary.’ He was OK with that. So that’s how I first fell in love with this character – Bridget Jones.
That was nearly 2 decades ago and anytime I see this movie playing on my tele, I still stop and watch for a bit. I don’t always watch the entire movie, as I did today. However; this movie never ceases to bring a smile to my face. It also brings back such joyful memories from my earlier years. I think you know a movie is a classic when it can sustain that interest after many years. Sometimes we dismiss movies, acting, and entertainment, in general – as just trivial. But; I think acting becomes real art when it is done as brilliantly as this movie was, by the entire cast of Bridget Jones’s Diary. One of the classic lines from one of the lead characters, played by Hugh Grant is: “I’m a terrible disaster with a posh voice and a bad character.” – Daniel Cleaver, Bridget Jones’s Diary. That sums up his character of Daniel so well – it is brilliant! And, wasn’t he a handsome rogue?
I love Renee Zellweger’s portrayal of Bridget Jones. This role was definitely made for her, as evidenced by the affection that is still felt for this movie, after so many years. She was sassy and feisty and just magic in every one of her scenes. She portrayed that single girl’s dilemma so well. That feeling, when you are at a certain age and start to feel that everyone around you is ‘coupling up’, and you feel like you are being left behind. “Oh, God, I’m so lonely. An entire weekend stretching ahead with no one to love or have fun with. Anyway, I don’t care. I’ve got a lovely steamed ginger pudding from M&S to put in the microwave.”
Let’s not forget the character of Mark Darcy, played by Colin Firth. He is more understated, compared to Hugh Grant’s character, Daniel. But again; perfect casting, – subtle, intelligent, and also handsome. He plays the ‘the good boy’ role which can sometimes be overlooked. But; not in this movie; everyone is just magnificent. One of my favourite lines of his is: “But the thing is, um, what I’m trying to say, very inarticulately, is that, um, in fact, perhaps despite appearances, I like you, very much. Just as you are.” Isn’t that beautiful? Words every woman wants a man she is interested in to say to her.
I think by now you get my point. I absolutely love this movie! I did not know how much I did, until I found myself, watching it – time and time again, throughout the years. I must say though; as much as I love the title character, my favorite version is the original. I have not watched the sequel very much – Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason – maybe saw it once or twice on TV. I have not seen the 3rd movie in the franchise, Bridget Jones’s Baby, from a few years ago. But; the first movie from 2001, Bridget Jones’s Diary, I would recommend watching for anyone. Although by now, I think most movie lovers have seen this feature, at least once. If you are in love, it makes you believe even more in ‘love’. If you are looking for love, it makes you believe you will find that special love. If you are completely indifferent, I think you will still love this movie.
This is a movie classic that puts you in a good mood, puts a smile on your face and gives you some good laughs. It can be hysterical at times. I also love how it incorporates family, friendships, and career into the story. The Christmas and winter scenes are so beautiful. There is a bit of everything….it truly shows the tapestry of life. Let us not forget the amazing soundtrack, including artists, Van Morrison, Diana Ross, The Pretenders, Chaka Khan, and Aretha Franklin, just to name a few. I think this is what entertainment of any kind is meant to do, uplift, inspire, and be timeless. Looking at it today, there are maybe some inappropriate references, that some people may be troubled by, but I choose to view it in the context of the time-period in which the film was made. Nearly 20 years on and this movie, to me, still delivers….it is a masterpiece.
Hello - From My Viewpoint 
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