Bridget Jones 4 Records Highest-Ever Opening for a Romcom in the UK
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Loading... - Arturo Ortiz
- 18 Feb 2025
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The latest installment in the beloved Bridget Jones series, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, has made a spectacular debut at the UK box office, achieving the highest-ever opening for a romantic comedy in the country. Starring Renée Zellweger, the film has exceeded expectations, raking in $14.9 million (£11.8 million) over its four-day opening weekend.
This fourth chapter in Helen Fielding’s iconic saga of the bumbling diarist has outperformed all previous films in the franchise, surpassing the second installment, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, which previously held the record with $8.1 million. The success of Mad About the Boy also marks a significant milestone for British production company Working Title Films, making it their best-ever opening weekend.
The film's impressive performance is noteworthy not only for its record-breaking figures but also for its dominance at the box office. During its opening weekend, Mad About the Boy accounted for 45% of the total UK box office take, showcasing its popularity among audiences. The film's success even eclipsed the opening weekend of Oppenheimer, another recent hit from Universal Pictures, which distributes the Bridget Jones franchise. In fact, Mad About the Boy now ranks as Universal’s 11th best opening, just behind Jurassic World Dominion.
The film opened alongside other major releases, including Captain America: Brave New World, yet it managed to capture the attention of moviegoers, leading to record-breaking attendance. Additionally, exhibitor Everyman reported its largest-ever three-day opening, surpassing the previous record set by the latest James Bond film, No Time to Die.
Mad About the Boy has not only made waves in the UK but has also opened strongly in international markets, including Australia, Mexico, and various countries across Europe. However, in the United States, the film has opted for a streaming release, debuting on Peacock instead of a theatrical run.
The storyline follows Bridget, now a widow with two young children, as she navigates the complexities of love and relationships, choosing between suitors played by Leo Woodall and Chiwetel Ejiofor. This fresh chapter in Bridget's life resonates with audiences, contributing to the film's box office success.
With its record-breaking opening, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy has solidified its place in cinematic history as the highest-grossing romcom debut in the UK. As fans continue to embrace Bridget's relatable journey, the film's success underscores the enduring appeal of the franchise and the charm of its beloved protagonist. While it may not have surpassed the opening weekend of Barbie, the film's achievements are a testament to the power of nostalgia and the universal themes of love and self-discovery that resonate with audiences around the world.
