Bridget Jones's Diary trivia - British Comedy Guide (original) (raw)
Helen Fielding, author of Bridget Jones's Diary, got some of her inspiration from classic novel Pride and Prejudice, with a series of similarities running throughout the film and book.
The most obvious link is the character Mark Darcy, based on Mr Darcy in Pride and Prejudice. At first both characters are portrayed as snobby individuals who the heroine doesn't like, but gradually develops feelings for. In the popular film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice Colin Firth also plays this role.
A more subtle similarity is that Bridget works for Pemberley Press, which is the name given to Mr Darcy's estate in Pride and Prejudice.
Renée Zellweger prepared for her role as Bridget by working at a British publishing company for a month.
Renée Zellweger reportedly put on 17 lb to play the part of Bridget. This involved working with a dietician to develop a regime of no exercise, three full meals a day and snacks.