Bridget Jones’s Baby (2016)

Bridget Jones’s Baby is the third installment in the much-loved Bridget Jones saga. Directed by Sharon Maguire (who also helmed the first film, Bridget Jones’s Diary), it brings back Renée Zellweger as everyone’s favorite awkward, lovable heroine, while adding new twists, new love interests, and of course, a big surprise pregnancy.

Detailed Summary

Bridget’s New Life

Bridget is now in her early forties, working as a television news producer. She’s single again after her relationship with Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) fell apart years earlier. Despite being successful in her career, Bridget feels a little empty—her friends are married with kids, while she is still looking for stability.

A Festival Encounter

At the insistence of her friend, Bridget goes to a music festival. There, she has a one-night stand with a charming American billionaire named Jack Qwant (Patrick Dempsey), who created a wildly successful dating app. Bridget chalks it up as a spontaneous adventure, not expecting to see him again.

An Awkward Reunion with Mark

Shortly after, Bridget runs into Mark Darcy at a christening. Sparks are still there, even if things are complicated—he’s married, but his marriage is crumbling. A few days later, they sleep together, rekindling the flame, albeit briefly.

The Pregnancy Twist

Weeks later, Bridget discovers she’s pregnant. The problem? She doesn’t know if the father is Jack or Mark. She calculates the dates but can’t be sure. Classic Bridget chaos ensues as she juggles the possibility of two very different fathers-to-be.

The Rivalry Between Mark and Jack

Once Bridget reveals the truth, Mark and Jack both commit to supporting her, but their rivalry is constant. They try to outdo each other in caring for Bridget, and their personalities clash—Mark is reserved and traditional, Jack is laid-back and modern. This tension provides much of the film’s comedy.

Bridget’s Independence

Despite the confusion, Bridget decides she doesn’t need to choose between them just yet. She focuses on her pregnancy, her job, and her own happiness. Still, her heart leans toward Mark, even though she respects Jack’s kindness.

Movie Ending

In the final act, Bridget goes into labor, and both men rush to the hospital to be by her side. It’s chaotic, funny, and full of heartfelt moments. She gives birth to a baby boy, but the father’s identity is still uncertain.

Months later, the truth is revealed: Mark Darcy is the biological father of Bridget’s baby. Bridget and Mark reconcile fully, and the film ends with their wedding, finally fulfilling the romantic arc that started fifteen years earlier. Jack, showing real grace, remains a close friend of the family, even attending their wedding. The conclusion ties up the love triangle in a way that is satisfying yet tender, with Bridget finally finding the balance she’s been searching for.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, Bridget Jones’s Baby does not have any post-credits scenes. Once the story concludes with the wedding, that’s it. Nothing hidden at the end.

Type of Movie

The film is a romantic comedy with elements of drama and slice-of-life humor. It’s heartfelt, witty, and filled with awkward but charming situations—true to Bridget’s legacy.

Cast

• Renée Zellweger as Bridget Jones
• Colin Firth as Mark Darcy
• Patrick Dempsey as Jack Qwant
• Emma Thompson as Dr. Rawlings (and also co-writer of the script)
• Jim Broadbent as Bridget’s dad
• Gemma Jones as Bridget’s mum

Film Music and Composer

The soundtrack combines pop hits and romantic ballads, perfectly capturing Bridget’s quirky energy. The score was composed by Craig Armstrong, who also worked on the previous Bridget films, providing continuity in tone.

Filming Locations

The film was shot mostly in London, including landmarks like Borough Market and locations around central London, emphasizing Bridget’s urban lifestyle. Some scenes were filmed at Greenwich and in Windsor Great Park for outdoor sequences. The use of real cityscapes grounds the film in a familiar, modern setting while reflecting Bridget’s growth into a more independent city professional.

Awards and Nominations

While the film didn’t sweep major awards, Renée Zellweger was widely praised for reprising her role with charm and humor. The film earned nominations at the National Film Awards UK and some recognition at comedy-specific awards.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Emma Thompson not only played Bridget’s doctor but also co-wrote the screenplay, adding her sharp wit.
• Hugh Grant did not return as Daniel Cleaver, though a fake-out news story about Cleaver’s “death” was included (before later suggesting he survived).
• Renée Zellweger returned to acting after a six-year hiatus specifically for this role.
• Patrick Dempsey joined the film after Grant’s exit, essentially filling the “third man” role.

Inspirations and References

The film is loosely inspired by Helen Fielding’s columns and her Bridget Jones novels, though it does not directly follow Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy. Instead, it crafts an original story while keeping the same spirit of the books.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There were reports that multiple endings were filmed to keep even the cast and crew guessing who the father would be. This was done to prevent leaks. Only the Mark Darcy ending was chosen for release, though some deleted scenes offered extended versions of Bridget’s awkward encounters.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film diverges from Fielding’s novels. In the book Mad About the Boy, Mark Darcy is dead, and Bridget is raising children as a widow. The movie ignores this darker plotline, keeping Mark alive and part of the love triangle. This creative choice made the film more lighthearted and romantic, fitting its tone as a comedy.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Bridget at the music festival, ending up in Jack’s yurt.
• The hilarious doctor’s appointment with Emma Thompson’s character, trying to keep things professional.
• Bridget’s labor scene with both men arguing over who should carry her hospital bag.
• The wedding finale, where Bridget finally finds her happy ending.

Iconic Quotes

• Bridget: “Can I have a glass of water? With wine in it, please.”
• Dr. Rawlings: “You’re 43. You’re still fertile, but the window is closing.”
• Mark Darcy: “Bridget, I’ve always loved you. Just the way you are.” (a callback to the original film).

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• A newspaper headline about Daniel Cleaver being “lost at sea” is a cheeky nod to Hugh Grant’s absence.
• Bridget’s ringtone is the same as in the earlier films, maintaining continuity.
• Her flat remains in Borough Market, instantly recognizable to longtime fans.

Trivia

• This was the first Bridget Jones film released in 12 years.
• Renée Zellweger put on weight again for the role, a trademark of Bridget’s character.
• The film grossed over $200 million worldwide, making it a commercial success.

Why Watch?

If you loved the first two Bridget Jones films, this is a satisfying return to form. It combines nostalgia with fresh humor, gives Bridget a new challenge, and delivers a heartwarming payoff. It’s a comfort film—funny, romantic, and filled with relatable chaos.

Director’s Other Movies

• Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
• Incendiary (2008)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
• Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004)
• Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy (2025)
• Notting Hill (1999)
• Love Actually (2003)
• Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)
• The Holiday (2006)
• My Best Friend’s Wedding (1997)