British writer Helen Fielding’s klutzy diarist (Renee Zellweger) resurfaces in a charming romantic comedy that proves middle-aged characters are more than capable of combining love and laughter to life-affirming effect.

Forty-three-year-old Bridget, a successful television news producer, is pregnant but doesn’t know whether the American founder of a matchmaking website (Patrick Dempsey) or her old flame Mark Darcy (Colin Firth) is the father.

Adroitly balancing physical and verbal humor, director Sharon Maguire wrings giggles and feel-good warmth from the scenario, which features elements that will make some viewers wince on its way to celebrating values that are truly important and lasting.

Recurring crude sexual language and humor, some rough language, two implied sexual encounters, brief upper female and real male nudity, and an instance of toilet humor.

The Catholic News Service classification is L – limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.