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BRIDGET JONES'S DIARY (R)

Plot Summary: A single, thirty-something British woman looks for love.

Reason for the Rating: Language and some strong sexuality.

BRIDGET JONES’S DIARY is a refreshing story of love that mixes a serious look at love with great comedy. I was particularly taken by the performance of Rene Zellweger, an American who does a credible job playing a British single gal (Bridget Jones) who wants a lasting relationship.

We learn about Bridget’s love life through her diary, and her charm is in her foibles. She struggles with weight, smoking, drinking too much, and saying the wrong things at the wrong times. Though we all may not struggle with the issues Bridget does we certainly can relate to not always being the charming, beautiful person we wish we to be!

As the movie unrolls, Bridget falls for her boss, Daniel Cleaver, played engagingly Hugh Grant (Notting Hill). Grant has made a great movie career playing the goofy, but loveable, average man. For the first third of the movie Grant is true to form as he plays a charming love interest. However, I was pleasantly surprised to see Hugh Grant’s character turn into a loathsome—yet entertaining—cad. It’s also funny to see Bridget attempt to match Daniel’s charm without success.

After a break-up from Daniel, Bridgett begins to notice Mark Darcy, a successful barrister who initially comes off as a snob. Played nicely by Colin Firth, Mark liked Bridgett despite her many imperfections and ability to get herself into embarrassing situations.

Though this film is rightfully rated R for its sexual situations, it still prompts a worthwhile examination of our own love lives and relationships. It’s a movie that makes us realize that what’s on the inside is far more important in a relationship than the perfect body, the perfect career, or saying all the right things at the right times.

FamilyFans.com Recommends: This is a great movie and, though not appropriate for all, it might be appropriate for mature teenagers to watch--and discuss--with their parents

After the Show…If members of your family choose to view this movie, use these questions to spark discussion about it afterward:

-- What character in Bridget Jones’s life is most like you? Explain your answer.

--Why do you suppose it’s so easy for people to relate to Bridget Jones?

-- What’s the best way to find a potential spouse? What ways typically lead to disappointment in relationships?

Chris Perciante

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