Renée Zellweger’s portrayal of Bridget Jones is a cinematic treasure that continues to captivate audiences. The 2001 film “Bridget Jones’s Diary” established this unique blend of awkward beauty and endearing quirkiness, which has become synonymous with Zellweger’s performance. Now, in “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy,” now streaming on Peacock, fans are reunited with their beloved character after almost a decade.
The movie picks up where the last installment left off, four years after Bridget’s tragic loss of her long-time partner Mark Darcy. She’s now a single mother of two, still trying to navigate life without him. As she returns to dating via Tinder, fans will notice echoes of their favorite rom-com tropes. While some may find the storylines familiar, Zellweger brings a warmth and authenticity that makes her character relatable.
The 1990s single girl phenomenon has seen its fair share of revivals, with Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic return in “And Just Like That…” another recent example. However, as much as fans adore these characters, some storylines can feel watered down or predictable. Zellweger’s performance remains a highlight in an otherwise familiar narrative.
The actress shines alongside Hugh Grant’s Daniel Cleaver, and their evolving platonic dynamic is a delightful treat for viewers. Yet, some may wonder where the line between homage and rehashing lies. While not all scenes are groundbreaking, Zellweger’s presence brings a renewed sense of purpose to familiar storylines.
A few minor quibbles exist, including a notable change in Bridget’s hair care routine, which veers into caricature territory. Nevertheless, these nitpicks pale in comparison to the magic that occurs whenever Zellweger takes on her iconic role. With her undeniable charm and unwavering dedication to bringing Bridget to life, “Mad About the Boy” is an endearing addition to the franchise – one that fans will eagerly follow, no matter where their adventures take them.
Source: https://slate.com/culture/2025/02/bridget-jones-4-mad-about-the-boy-movie-peacock-renee-zellweger.html