Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason delivers what you would expect in a sequel to the 2001 hit. Our story resumes eight weeks into Bridget (Renee Zellweger) and Mark Darcy's (Colin Firth) relationship. The couple is already having problems, with Bridget throwing tantrums and Darcy showing embarrassment over her tendency to behave like an ass around his coworkers. Eventually, these differences cause the lovers to take a break. Bridget is soon tempted by the shagadelic Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant), her old flame and Darcy's rival. We already watched Bridget choose between the two men in the last episode, and this dilemma is simply not as interesting the second time around.
The film is good enough to amuse audiences, but lacks the charm of the original. Many of the jokes are recycled and the dialogue often feels contrived. The movie makes up for these faults with a few unexpected plot turns, quick one-liners, and Zellweger's adorable performance and lovely, partially exposed breasts. (Yes, her weight is back.)
Most of the movie's humor revolves around Bridget's ridiculousness. Her antics are occasionally so extreme that it makes one wonder if she is in fact a bit special. Still, there is a timeless comfort in watching someone more awkward than we, and Bridget dependably lives up to the task.
