Comedies are always the hardest films to judge because they rely so heavily on a person’s sense of humour. And it’s clear that I, as an early 20s male, am not the target audience for this, the third installment in the Bridget Jones franchise. I think I’ve seen the first film, but I’m not even entirely sure on that.

I was also incredibly underwhelmed by the trailers for the Bridget Jones’s Baby, I thought most of it looked really poor, and Emma Thompson appeared to be the only redeeming thing about the film. However I headed down to the cinema to watch regardless. And I have to say I was really pleasantly surprised with this one. As someone who doesn’t really know what’s gone on in the first film, there isn’t a huge amount that you have to know. Any previous relevant back-story is explained, and whilst it might cost some of the emotional moments of the film if you haven’t seen the previous films, Bridget Jones’s Baby is a film that stands on its own.

The story follows Bridget as she has two romantic encounters within a few days of each other and winds up pregnant. She then tries to keep the two from finding out about each other, and then those two competing with each other when they find discover the other possible father. It’s actually a pretty good story, and given how many comedies this year have shirked on that element, that puts it above most of the big comedies. The film was a little long, and ended fairly clichéd, but for most of the time it was a pretty enjoyable storyline, even if it is recycled from the first film.

Renée Zellweger is very comfortable in the role. She leads the film very well, and is still strong as Bridget 15 years after the first film. Colin Firth plays a classic Firth, upper class, Colin Firth type character that he’s made his career on. Patrick Dempsey brings an equally charming performance as new possible love interest Jack Qwant. The supporting cast is all very strong, but Emma Thompson is certainly the stand out as Bridget’s doctor. Every time she’s on screen she’s hilarious, but crucially isn’t overused.

The most important aspect of the film is obviously the comedy. And there are several moments that are hilariously awkward. There were multiple times that offered big laughs. And whilst I didn’t find myself laughing quite as much as the majority of the people in the cinema, I still found this to be a funny film, even though I wasn’t the target audience.

Bridget Jones’s Baby isn’t a perfect film. It rehashes some old material, but does so in a fairly fun and engaging way. It offers plenty of laughs. Even as someone coming into the film cold I was able to enjoy it, but for fans of the franchise I’m sure there is even more to like.

7/10