Friday, 9:00pm, 5 Star
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001), directed by Sharon Maguire, is a defining romantic comedy of the early 2000s, capturing the awkwardness, insecurity, and humor of single life in a way that resonated with a global audience. Renée Zellweger’s portrayal of Bridget, a relatable, self-deprecating everywoman, navigating her thirties in London while juggling career pressures and romantic entanglements, brought a refreshing voice to the genre. The film’s charm lies not only in Bridget’s hilarious inner monologue but also in its portrayal of the messy, often unglamorous journey of self-acceptance.
The soundtrack of Bridget Jones’s Diary is a carefully curated blend of pop anthems and soulful classics, reflecting both the high and low points of Bridget’s emotional rollercoaster. Standout tracks include Aretha Franklin’s "Respect," which perfectly underscores Bridget’s early resolve to take control of her life and stop pining over the emotionally unavailable Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant). The empowering anthem has long been synonymous with independence, and here it signals Bridget’s attempt to rewrite her own narrative—though, of course, her actual progress is hilariously inconsistent. Another iconic moment comes courtesy of Chaka Khan’s "I’m Every Woman," blasting as Bridget celebrates her perceived romantic triumphs, adding a cheeky exuberance to her love life.
The soundtrack’s blend of Motown, pop, and 90s hits mirrors Bridget’s emotional journey, oscillating between elation and heartbreak. A notable inclusion is "All By Myself" by Eric Carmen, which plays during the film’s opening sequence as Bridget drinks wine and sings forlornly into her hairbrush—an iconic scene that became symbolic of single-life melancholy. The song is later reprised when Bridget is at her lowest, only to be replaced by a much more optimistic note as she runs through the snow to Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) in the film's romantic climax. The soundtrack, much like Bridget herself, balances moments of humor, vulnerability, and empowerment, making it an essential part of the film’s enduring appeal.
- Daisy Rae