03.10.07
Have You Met Ms. Jones?
Mary-Carolyn here, with some general thoughts on Bridget Jones’ Diary. First, I have a sneaking suspicion that “Uncle” Geoffrey is meant to be Mr. Collins; though, and this is largely because I can’t figure out who Jude, Shaz and Tom are, I don’t think every character has an Austen double, which is alright by me. Updating the story can get a little hairy with the addition of things like the Internet and an increasing emphasis on sex and drinking (Lizzy wouldn’t have been able to take a mini-break!), but I think Fielding does some pretty interesting and clever things. Bridget’s on-screen and voice over comments really give a sense of Austen’s sarcastic narrator, though its not as if Bridget needed much help. I think, because Daniel and Bridget’s relationship started over the Internet, it can be seen in the film as an “unacceptable” social channel. I don’t think the film’s position is that the Internet shouldn’t be used for communication, but perhaps it’s not the best way to find a boyfriend or future spouse. This reading is confirmed by Bridget’s mom who meets Julian in a similar technological medium, television. And it’s definitely not acceptable to meet your husband through the home shopping network! Bridget’s parents provide a great example of the pitfalls of an unequal marriage, and these are seen much more explicitly here than in any of the other P&P adaptations. I found Bridget’s “panty dilemma” quite funny, and in a strange way, very reminisant of Jane’s dilemma if she ought to show more affection than she felt for Bingley and thus secure his affections. A great Pride and Prejudice touch is the name of Bridget’s publishing company – Pemberly Press. When Bridget and Daniel go out to dinner, Daniel does the same thing with his eyes Wickhan did when he lied about his past; neither character looks their companion straight in the eyes. Another scene with Daniel, where the two discuss commitment, shows this movie, like Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and its other adaptations, the focus is not on what you have, but on what you are and what you are capable of (for example, are you capable of committing to one person?).
I’ll close my thoughts with a great quote from Helen Fielding on the similarities between the plot of her novel and Austen’s novel: ”I thought I would simply steal it. I thought she wouldn’t mind because she’s dead.” This comment was preceded by quite a lot of compliments to Austen’s writing and style, as well as her continuing relevance to our society. Fielding has really done an excellent job creating a novel and screen play that both reflect Austen and interact with her in a new and fresh way, causing viewers to rethink Austen’s themes, and her continuing relevance.