The Cumberland is one of London’s most historic hotels (Image: THE CUMBERLAND HOTEL)
Rom-com fans are flocking to cinemas to catch the latest instalment of Bridget Jones, with the film breaking box office records nearly 25 years after the franchise first launched in 2001.
Renee Zellweger reprises her role as Bridget, navigating a new romantic chapter in her life as she balances work, motherhood, and grief.
The film, also starring Leo Woodall and Chiwetel Ejiofor, has achieved the highest box office opening for a romantic comedy in the UK and Ireland, according to Universal.
Given Bridget Jones’ status as an iconic romantic comedy, which cemented Hugh Grant and Colin Firth’s positions as Britain’s favourite romantic leads, this success is no surprise.
As I prepared to be swept up in a wave of nostalgia by this unexpectedly emotional final chapter, I decided to take my Valentine’s Day celebration to the next level by fully immersing myself in the world of Bridget Jones.
Chilled prosecco, a fruit plate and a pink diary were waiting for me (Image: REACH)
Experiencing the Ultimate Bridget Jones Room Package at The Cumberland
I was intrigued when I discovered that the historic 900-room hotel, The Cumberland, was offering a special Bridget Jones Room Package for Valentine’s Day.
Upon arrival at Marble Arch, my partner and I were instructed to “ask for Mr Darcy” at the front desk, piquing our curiosity (although I suspected Colin Firth had other plans, I was still thrilled).
Upon arrival at The Cumberland, the influence of music is unmistakable; its expansive lobby boasts electric guitars and rockstar memorabilia, crowned by a vibrant bar where live bands set the stage alight.
The hotel’s storied past as a haven for musical icons such as Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Madonna, and Diana Ross since 1933 comes as no surprise, reports the Mirror.
The room was equipped with an electric guitar and functioning record player (Image: REACH)
At the reception, our request to see Mr Darcy was met with swift service, leading us to a secondary room where we were welcomed with a sparkling glass of prosecco.
The Bridget Jones Room Package was then unveiled, prompting us to ascend to our exquisite suite, eager to discover its offerings.
As a themed experience aficionado, I was thoroughly impressed by the suite’s homage to music, featuring a functional record player and an electric guitar ready for strumming.
A personal touch awaited on the table: a handwritten note from the staff, inviting me to indulge in a rom-com evening, accompanied by a chilled bottle of fizz, a sumptuous fruit platter, and a pink Bridget diary just for me.
The Cumberland houses a huge bar and stage with live music playing each night (Image: THE CUMBERLAND HOTEL)
The suite also boasted a stunning free-standing bathtub, an exceptionally cosy bed, and a view over Mayfair that seemed almost too good to be ‘true’.
Adding to the charm was a mirror inscribed with the heights of various famous musicians, alongside the playful message: “We’re all a little bit Bridget.”
We had a splendid Valentine’s Day, indulging in delicious (mostly fried) food at the Sound Bar while enjoying the live band. We popped open a bottle of prosecco in our cosy robes and ended the night watching a classic rom-com, Notting Hill, in ‘true’ Bridget style.
The following morning, we were treated to a complimentary breakfast buffet before our departure. The spread was impressive, featuring everything from a traditional Full English to pastries and even some delightful hummus and falafel.
The cherry on top was the package inclusion of two tickets to see Bridget Jones, Mad About the Boy. After all the excitement of our Bridget-themed Valentine’s night, I couldn’t wait to head to the cinema.
The bathroom was also very luxurious (Image: REACH)
Thoughts on Bridget Jones 4
As for the viewing experience of Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, fans can expect an emotional rollercoaster, despite it being less polished than its predecessors.
The film tends to lose momentum around the middle with excessive scenes in the production studio and outside school gates. However, its compelling opening and heartwarming conclusion prevent it from feeling tedious.
The film boasts a predictably excellent adult cast and a number of familiar faces. Child actor Casper Knopf also stands out with his particularly strong performance as Billy Darcy.
There were also numerous awkward moments – a staple of any British romantic comedy – but it’s undeniable that the film successfully tugs at the heartstrings multiple times (judging by the frequent sobs I could hear echoing throughout the cinema).
It’s also understandable that many fans might be upset by the absence of a key character in this film and, if you decide to give it a miss for that reason, I wouldn’t hold it against you.
However, if you can overlook this disappointing fact – and if you’re already a fan of the first three films – you’ll find that Bridget Jones 4 is still worth your time.
Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy is in cinemas now. The Cumberland’s Bridget Jones package is also available to book up until February 28.