Introduction
Bridget Jones’s Diary is among the most successful and relatable motion pictures and has been praised in the early 2000s and present times. The director creates an environment of sympathy and understanding by introducing a character with issues many individuals face. After watching the film, the audience sees the growth of Bridget Jones as she transcends her incompetence and finds ways to fulfill her needs in validation, love, and self-improvement.
Analysis of Bridget’s Communication Competence in Interpersonal Interactions
One can see a certain duality when first observing the behavior and communication of the protagonist, Bridget Jones. On the one hand, one can see the heroine’s interpersonal competence and confidence when communicating with others. On the other hand, the audience can later observe the incompetence that stems from her insecurity and self-doubt.
At the film’s beginning, as Bridget Jones speaks with Mark Darcy, she confesses that she was hungover. She continued to talk poorly about herself by emphasizing that she needs to quit drinking and smoking and “keep New Year’s resolutions” (Maguire, 2001, 4:24). As a result, it is evident that although she is trying to engage in a conversation and express her feelings, she misinterprets social clues. While Darcy was someone Jones knew, she made inappropriate remarks, making both of them uncomfortable.
Nevertheless, Bridget Jones’s communication style is not the only aspect of the film that is heavily discussed. Many critics and viewers hold different opinions on Mark Darcy, and his behavior is not entirely motivated. This is highly debatable since his behavior is motivated by his slowly growing affection for Bridget. There are several moments when his caring for the heroine can be seen.
Indeed, by the end of the film, one can observe the culmination of his feelings for Bridget when he leaves America to come to London because he “realized that [he has] forgotten to kiss [Bridget] goodbye” (Maguire, 2001, 1:26:25). In this case. However, his feelings could have been developed further in the film; his heroic behavior demonstrates his admiration, which is why I am convinced he would have behaved as he did.
Understanding Bridget’s Needs: What Drives Her Choices?
While watching the film Bridget Jones’ Diary, the audience is exposed to the main character’s vulnerabilities and her efforts to meet her needs. On the one hand, the woman is desperate for love and acceptance, which is enhanced by the remarks of others. In one scene, Mark Darcey calls Briget “a verbally incompetent spinster,” which not only hurts the heroine’s feelings but makes her feel incomplete (Maguire, 2001, 4:51).
Another need that the heroine demonstrates is the need for self-improvement, which involves both professional and personal improvement. Bridget wants to be more prosperous and confident, so she uses beauty treatments, such as cellulite massages, waxing, shaving, and others (Maguire, 2001). Finally, Bridget has a strong need for validation, especially when it comes to her weight and social status. For instance, in one scene with a book launch party, Bridget joins the conversation with three men, laughing at their jokes while not understanding the meaning Maguire, 2001). This illustrates her desire to be accepted and have a sense of belonging.
Meeting Her Needs: Successes and Failures in Bridget’s Journey
Eventually, the audience sees how Bridget Jones is successful in meeting the needs she has. For example, in the end, Bridget feels loved and does not feel alone. With Mark Darcy becoming a part of her life, Bridget fulfills her romantic needs. Additionally, the heroine fulfills her need for self-improvement as she moves up the corporate ladder and becomes a TV presenter Maguire, 2001).
However, it is noteworthy that Bridget Jones makes many mistakes along the way, which create barriers for her and delay her growth. One of the mistakes she makes is engaging in excessive drinking. As Bridget confesses, “She suddenly realized that unless something changed soon [she] was going to live a life where [her] major relationship was with a bottle of wine” (Maguire, 2001, 5:16). Another mistake that she made was making self-deprecating jokes, which showed her self-consciousness. Through this, the heroine emphasizes her need for validation from others.
Bridget’s Interpretations of Darcy’s, Daniel’s, and Mum’s Actions
Finally, Bridget interprets Darcy’s, Daniel’s, or Mum’s behavior through her prism of insecurity and bias. By always being insecure, the heroine assumes the worst from the people around her and is constantly exposed to self-doubt. For example, in the beginning, Bridget sees Darcy as a “premature and middle-aged prick.” Yet, toward the end, she perceives him as a loving and caring individual (Maguire, 2001, 19:42).
Moreover, she initially thinks of Daniel as a person who is genuinely in love with her and later understands that they are not meant to be together (Maguire, 2001). Lastly, she sees her mother’s behavior as intrusive and focused on criticism. Thus, Bridget is preoccupied with her vision of self and inner conflicts, which makes her doubt the integrity of others.
Conclusion
In summary, viewers can observe Bridget Jones’ development after seeing the film as she overcomes her incompetence and discovers ways to satiate her desires for approval, love, and self-improvement. The protagonist’s interpersonal skills and self-assurance in speaking with others are evident. However, the audience can also see the incompetence that results from her uncertainty and self-doubt. Furthermore, Darcy’s heroic actions express his admiration, even though his emotions should have been explored more in the movie. Lastly, Bridget sees Darcy, Daniel, or Mum’s actions through the lens of her own bias and insecurities.
Reference
Maguire, S. (Director). (2001). Bridget Jones’ Diary [Film]. Universal Pictures.