REVIEW: Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy
Launching in cinemas on 14 February 2025 (hey, that’s today!), Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy brings joy to movie goers as B – as her young, new friend calls her – returns. Having last seen Bridget in 2016, she is sure to be welcomed by fans with open arms and this time – we can assure you – with more empathy than ever.
Self-Discovery and Self-Love
As the self-discovering journey of Bridget Jones continues in yet another gripping storyline, the character finds herself amidst the challenge of navigating life as a widow and a mom of two children: Billy (Casper Knopf) and Mable (Mila Jankovic). While friends and family lovingly share their thoughts, advice and guidance, she finds her way through chaos by taking certain life-altering decisions. The film speaks to the self-love trend and the topic of caring for yourself first, as that will allow you to be able to care for others. It’s like putting on your own oxygen mask first, as one of the characters rightly states.
Near and Dear to Bridget Jones
Since her husband, Mr. Darcy’s (Colin Firth) unfortunate death on a work trip to Sudan, Bridget has been experiencing all the pressures of being the perfect mom. And that, on her own. Other modern frustrations – like forgetting her Netflix password – come into play too, but in essence, the film revolves around single parenthood and navigating grief.
Hugh Grant’s character, Daniel Cleaver returns too. Yes, Daniel was found alive following a mysterious plane crash which initially marked him dead in Bridget Jones’ Baby. Viewers will most definitely fall madly in love with him all over again, even though he has not completely altered his playboy ways. Still, Daniel is worried about Bridget and their platonic relationship is one to cherish throughout the film.
Billy and Mable also form a large part of Bridget’s life in general as the film progresses. As she navigates through her grief and frustrations, Bridget finds answers and peace. Along the way, the film also touches on the theme of loss and how it affects children. Eventually, it signals healing and hints of the realisation that things will be okay.
Two major turning points include Bridget Jones’ decision to return to work and dating again. A young Biochemist, Roxster plays a pivotal role in Bridget’s way of perceiving life. He brings some exciting twists to the storyline and to be honest, we’d love to hear other people’s comments on how things pan out in the end.
Often unknowingly, a teacher from Billy’s school, Mr. Walliker (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor), becomes the hero in many ways. He has a way of silently making his way into one’s heart – both on and off screen.
Wild, Wonderful and Witty As Only Bridget Jones Can Be
Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy is filled with all the things you might expect of a Bridget Jones movie, and more. It comes with raw emotion and real, relatable moments that make one want to jump through the screen and hug Renée Zellweger’s character. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Bridget Jones film without some truly hilarious scenes, classic Bridget faces and typical romcom cliches either. Not to mention the wet T-shirt moment that has everyone talking about Leo Woodall’s pool scene!
It’s a must-watch.
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