Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy Set for UK Box Office Success

London, UK — The upcoming release of “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy” is poised to become the biggest homegrown box-office hit in the UK this year. Despite being relegated to streaming services in the United States, theaters in the UK expect a surge of interest around the film, especially as Valentines Day approaches.

According to industry analysts, the fourth installment of Helen Fielding‘s beloved romantic comedy franchise is projected to be the top British film for the first half of 2025. “We’re anticipating it to be one of the biggest titles of the year in the UK,” Robert Mitchell, director of theatrical insights at Gower Street Analytics, stated. Comparisons have already been drawn to blockbuster releases such as “Barbie,” with pre-sales reportedly exceeding initial expectations.

Instead of following typical Oscar-nominated films, “Mad About the Boy” serves as an alternative, family-friendly option to other releases that are considered more challenging. Eduardo Leal, group regional director of screen content for the Vue cinema chain, added, “It is tracking to be the biggest ever Bridget Jones film.”

Renée Zellweger returns as Bridget, now a mother of two, dealing with the loss of her husband, Mark Darcy, played by Colin Firth, who has passed away during a humanitarian trip. Spectral appearances by Firth’s character are teased in the movie’s trailer. Additionally, the film reintroduces Daniel Cleaver, played by Hugh Grant, who returns to Bridget’s life following her grief.

The film is positioned as a vibrant counter to the latest superhero blockbuster, Marvel’s “Captain America: Brave New World.” Mitchell believes the latest Bridget Jones installment will attract a diverse audience, especially on the traditionally romantic holiday of Valentine’s Day.

Interestingly, the film’s approach to its release is starkly different in the U.S., where it will not be available in cinemas, but will debut directly on the Peacock streaming service. This type of release strategy underscores a cultural shift in audience expectations and viewing habits.

Despite facing challenges in establishing traction in the U.S. market historically, insiders remain optimistic about this new installment. The previous films, while popular in the UK, have seen diminishing returns stateside. The first film earned 25% of its global box office gross in the U.S., while the third film, “Bridget Jones’s Baby,” brought in only 11% of its total from U.S. audiences.

Early reviews from test screenings, which are under embargo until February 12, indicate a positive response, with fans praising the film’s maturity and thematic complexities. Central to the plot is a love triangle involving Bridget, a 29-year-old character named Roxster, played by Leo Woodall, and a science teacher portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor. The age-gap relationship theme resonates with current societal conversations sparked by other successful films in recent years.

As the film nears its release, Zellweger reflected on the emotional weight of the story. “It was a huge impact… I was weeping, mourning this fictional character,” she recalled, emphasizing the bond she felt with her late co-star. She acknowledged the nuanced emotional landscape the film explores, especially regarding relationships with substantial age differences.

“Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy” opens in UK theaters on February 13, 2025, and is anticipated to draw significant crowds during the Valentines weekend.