Renee Zellweger as Bridget Jones has to be one of the most underrated comedic performances of all time.

For almost 25 years, the Academy Award-winning actress has seamlessly jumped into the role of an awkward yet love-sick introvert who simply can’t decide between one man or the other.

However, 24 years on from the original film, you would be excused for thinking that the simple rom-com formula on which these films rely had grown a little stale. My response to that is, surprisingly, it hasn’t!

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy follows Ms Jones after a tragic incident involving her beloved Mr Darcy, leaving her a widow.

Navigating her life as a widow and single mum with the help of her family, friends and former lover, Daniel. Bridget returns to work and back to the dating apps as she’s pursued by a younger man and her son’s science teacher.

Now, it isn’t the plot that makes these movies. It’s Bridget Jones. Within all of us, we all have a slightly awkward persona that, at its core, wants that perfect romance.

It has carried the plot of three previous films in this franchise, and incredibly, it continues its high run of form in the fourth instalment.

I might be preaching what people already know, but Ms Zellweger is fantastic as Bridget. Even two and a half decades later, her delivery is impeccable, and her wit is unmatched.

While I was scared that the lack of Colin Firth and Hugh Grant may hinder her charm in the newest film, I was pleasingly put at ease only a few minutes in.

Chiwetel Ejiofor and Leo Woodall are replacing the two iconic British actors as the new suitors vying for Bridget’s affection and while they might not reach the heights of Mr Darcy and Daniel Cleaver, they both bring a unique dynamic to film.

One being a young dream boat and the other being the off-limits teacher of Bridget’s kids.

Another highlight was just how personal this film got with our lead. She’s grieving the loss of her soul mate and the father of her kids but still wants to move on with her life.

She’s forced to answer questions that aren’t easy. It takes an already relatable character and humanises her. It allows other more comedic parts of the film to flourish because we’ve learnt something new about a character that has been in pop culture for so long.

With more and more CGI blockbusters hitting cinema and the Oscars just around the corner, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy was a welcome change of pace.

Renee Zellweger delivers as always, the new cast and surprising returns are welcome with open arms and, despite being the fourth film, it feels really fresh.

Take a friend out to see this if you want a relaxed Friday night after a long week – you will leave with a smile on your face.

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy is showing in cinemas across the country.