The character of Bridget Jones, brought to life in the film series by Renée Zellweger, has become something of a cultural icon over the years. Based on the novels by Helen Fielding, which were adapted from her column in The Independent, the fictional Jones has served over the years as a representation of women throughout various seasons of life, and her charm and quirkiness has made her a beloved figure. With the fourth film in the series set to premiere this Friday, February 14, check out our guide to the Bridget Jones films, perfect for Galentine’s Day or your next girls’ night in.
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)—the iconic rom-com that started it all
The first film in this series tells the story of an unlucky-in-love thirty-something-year-old who drinks too much, smokes too much, and wishes to turn her life around in the new year. Vowing to shed a few pounds, cut back on her vices and find true love, she becomes entangled with her charming boss Daniel Cleaver, played by Hugh Grant, and the son of a family friend, Mark Darcy, who couldn’t be farther from who she envisioned herself with, played by Colin Firth. As she chronicles this journey in her diary, Bridget Jones takes us on the adventure of a lifetime in this debut film.
Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004)—a hilarious sequel
Bridget Jones returns, and though the first film ends with her and Mark on a happy note, jealousy gets in the way, causing them to go their separate ways. Meanwhile, Bridget, now working in television, crosses paths once again with Daniel, and an assignment in Thailand puts them back in each other’s lives. It isn’t long before Bridget sees he hasn’t changed, and in true Bridget Jones fashion, a series of misunderstandings make for a sticky yet hilarious situation in this follow-up film we love.
Bridget Jones’s Baby (2016)—a new twist in Bridget’s life
In the third Bridget Jones film, the lead character is back, and she and Mark have gone their separate ways. When she meets a dashing mathematician played by Patrick Dempsey, a one-night stand turns into something far more complicated when she learns that she’s pregnant—but a night spent with Mark after re-connecting leaves her wondering the status of her baby’s paternity.
Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy (2025)—see it February 14!
In the latest installment in the film series, Bridget Jones, now a widow and single mom to two children, is embarking on a new journey full of dating apps and new prospects as she learns to let go of the past and start living life to its fullest again. Also starring Leo Woodall, Hugh Grant and Chiwetel Ejiofor, you won’t want to miss this new film perfect for a night out with the girls.
