Renée Zellweger feels right at home as Bridget Jones again

MANILA, Philippines — Two-time Academy Award winner Renée Zellweger describes stepping back into the role of Bridget Jones as a homecoming.

“In the books, on the screen, it feels like you’re having a reunion with your friend,” Zellweger said. “It’s such an interesting thing for a fictional character to move through life at the same pace as the folks who relate to her and love her. People feel that they can see themselves reflected in Bridget’s life experiences.

“They want to meet up with her again to see how she’s grown and how her life has changed — how she’s dealing with her current challenges. This is felt universally by those who have grown up with Bridget.”

For director Michael Morris, Zellweger remains the heart and soul of the beloved character. “Renée is one of these people who is absolutely herself,” he shared. “She’s wildly friendly and bursts through any preconception you may have about what a Hollywood star is like. This woman has been in all my favorite films. For as long as I can remember, character after character — from comedies and dramas to musicals, there’s nothing that she doesn’t do. But when you’re talking to her, she’s completely present. I think that’s why she’s so wonderful in this role.”

Morris believes Zellweger’s return as Bridget is a gift to longtime fans. “What Renée brings to Bridget is this wonderfully relentless optimism and positivity,” he said. “You get the sense that Bridget cares about the people that she’s with… and that Bridget wants things to be perfect for everyone. Renée radiates that.”

In “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy,” Bridget’s life has changed drastically, and she’s navigating new challenges. Zellweger sees the film as a chance to reconnect with audiences who have followed Bridget’s journey over the years.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy,” opening in Philippine cinemas on Feb. 12.