Introduction
Bridget Jones’s Diary is a classic 2001 film that follows the journey of a woman in her thirties as she navigates various challenges in life. The audience observes many ups and downs in the witty and relatable heroine’s path connected to personal and professional issues. Having dire needs for love, self-acceptance, and personal growth, the heroine is faced with mistakes connected to poor judgment and decision-making.
Bridget’s Communication Competence
Bridget’s communication in interpersonal situations can be described as a mix of competence and incompetence. For example, when analyzing the remarks and behavior of the heroine, one can see how straightforward she is and that she is not afraid of communicating her emotions. In one scene, after meeting Mr. Darcy at a book launch party and remembering the inappropriate comments he once made about her, she sarcastically greeted him, saying she was “very disappointed not to see [her] favorite reindeer jumper again” (Maguire, 2001, 18:26).
At the same time, the woman tends to overthink her interactions, leading to awkwardness. During job interviews, she can be observed failing to articulate her thoughts and assert herself, making her use jokes as self-defense. During one interview, she admits, “I’ve got to leave my current job because I’ve shagged my boss” (Maguire, 2001, 47:42). Additionally, while giving an introductory speech at the book launch party, she speaks about the work’s significance but then becomes distracted by other writers and starts complimenting them, telling Lord Archer that his books “aren’t bad, either” (Maguire, 2001, 20:55). Therefore, her self-deprecating humor and awkwardness undermine her confidence and hinder effective communication.
Mark Darcy’s Behavior
Some critics contend that the story’s resolution and climax—particularly the one involving Bridget and Mark—feel hurried and lack sufficient development. However, it can be argued that Mark Darcy would have behaved the way he did in the novel or the film. At the beginning of the film, the audience sees the arrogant version of the man who calls Bridget a “verbally incontinent spinster who smokes like a chimney, drinks like a fish, and dresses like her mother” (Maguire, 2001, 3:58).
Meanwhile, throughout the plot, it is evident that the character’s opinion of the main heroine changes, with him demonstrating concern and care for Bridget. In the end, one sees a gesture of affection, buying the woman a new diary “to make a new start perhaps” (Maguire, 2001, 1:29:43). As a result, the ending is not abrupt but rather a sudden realization of feelings and desire to make amends for past mistakes.
Bridget’s Needs and the Process of Meeting Them
Throughout the film, one can see Bridget’s several needs. For example, the first need is connected to the need for love and companionship, with the heroine wanting to find someone who accepts her as she is. The second need is connected to self-acceptance since she is constantly struggling with her perception of weight, career, and personal life, leaving her under much pressure. Finally, the third need is about personal growth and fulfillment.
While being stressed by other factors, Bridget aspires to make her life more organized and be able to fulfill her potential. Bridget does experience the fulfillment of all her needs by the end of the story. For instance, in the end, the heroine is capable of finding true love in Mark Darcy, who “once said [he] liked [Bridget] just as [she is]” (Maguire, 2001, 1:19:11). Consequently, the woman gains a sense of belonging, personal growth, and emotional stability.
Mistakes
Furthermore, it is essential to consider the mistakes made by the heroine. The first error is connected to poor judgment, especially regarding her connection to Daniel Cleaver. Not only was the character unfaithful, but manipulative as well. In one scene, Cleaver says, “You’re the only one who can save me, Bridge” (Maguire, 2001, 1:06:28). Daniel reassures Bridget that they were meant for each other, but the heroine is still attracted to him. Moreover, the heroine engages in impulsive decision-making, such as when she compliments other writers at a book launch party. The woman constantly experiences comedic and chaotic situations without thinking of the consequences.
Bridget’s Interpretation of Mum’s Behavior
Bridget’s fears and feelings of inadequacy may influence her perception of her mother’s actions. From the beginning, the audience can see the attitude of Bridget’s mother toward her, such as when she calls her child a “dumpling,” referring to her weight (Maguire, 2001, 00:39). Then, the mother’s reaction to her daughter’s looks, such as “You’ll never get a boyfriend if you look like you wandered out of Auschwitz,” puts everything into perspective (Maguire, 2001, 1:09).
The reason why Bridget perceives her parent’s actions and words as judgmental is that her mother is never satisfied with either her life or children. As Mrs. Jonson recalls when talking to her daughter, “To be honest, darling, having children isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Given my chance again, I’m not sure I’d have any” (Maguire, 2001, 27:50). As a result, even if the mother’s words are not intended to hurt the main heroine, they are still perceived as critical.
Conclusion
In summary, the heroine, who desperately needs love, acceptance of herself, and personal development, makes errors due to impaired judgment and poor decision-making. It is possible to characterize Bridget’s interpersonal communication skills as a combination of competence and incompetence. She receives a lot of criticism throughout her life due to her relationship with her mother. She also makes terrible decisions, which is how she ends up dating Cleaver. Nevertheless, at the novel’s end, Bridget finds her love and meets her needs.
Reference
Maguire, S. (Director). (2001). Bridget Jones’s diary [Film]. Universal Pictures.