Adgal's Movie Reviews

Rating: Null/10 (10 April 2001)

What a treat this movie was! Being an avid fan of the books, I was so afraid this would just be another book ripped to shreads by Hollywood. Boy, was I wrong! Sure, there were lots of funny moments from the book left out, but you can't film it all. I think the essence of Bridget has been truly captured here. Why is it that the funniest movies seem to come out of England, or have mainly English casts? Hmmmm...maybe Hollywood should take some pointers. Back to Bridget Jones' Diary....Renee Zellweger's performance was flawless! I never noticed her accent waver a bit. And the scene during the opening credits where Bridget is wallowing in self pity and listening to awful 'adult contemporary' songs, is one of the funniest scenes in the movie. I can't tell you how many people I overheard uttering, "Oh my god, I do that ALL the time!" Zellweger captured Bridget's hopes, fears, embarrassments, humor, zanniness, neurosis, honesty and likeability in a wonderful performance that is sure to get her at least a Golden Globe nod. Hugh Grant gives one of his best performances since Four Weddings and a Funeral. How nice it was to see him NOT play a good guy, and do it so well. And then there is the delicious Colin Firth. He portrays Mark Darcy with a quiet elegance that makes his performance seem effortless. That's what makes it so good.
I, for one, am breathlessly waiting for the sequel. I guess I'll have to see the movie a few more times. However, I am anxious to see how they will handle the interview Bridget so hilariously messes up with Colin Firth, since Colin Firth is playing Mark Darcy. Hmmm....could be interesting!
But, please, if you are a fan of the books, you will not be disappointed. Run, don't walk, to your nearest theater and see Bridget Jones' Diary!!