The Backlot Book to Film: Bridget Jones's Diary

Bridget Jones's Diary is Helen Fielding's hugely influential 1996 novel, itself inspired by Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice. Taking the form of a 12-month diary, it chronicles, with much intrigue, heart and humour, the London life of 30-something Bridget, her relationships, hang-ups and career frustrations.

The film adaptation came five years later, stars Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth and Hugh Grant, and was an enormous hit that retains the book's charm.

WA novelist and journalist Emma Young will be joined by Writing WA's Laurie Steed for a discussion of the book and the film. Emma will discuss how her second novel The Disorganisation of Celia Stone (Fremantle Press) was influenced by Bridget Jones, what she enjoys about the text, and where she necessarily departs from it for a deeper understanding of womanhood, perfectionism and femininity in today's society.