The best Pride and Prejudice modern version is Bridget Jones Diary by Helen Fielding. Bridget’s and Mark Darcy’s romantic story reminds of Elizabeth’s and Mr. Darcy’s love line.
The plot of both writings coincides in several moments. Both Austen’s Elizabeth and Fielding’s Bridget try to look for a perfect match. They look for an ideal man for marriage and life. At the same time, unsuitable nasty men try to get their attention. Still, this is the only trait the women have in common. Lizzy is intelligent, self-sufficient, and confident. Bridget is the opposite – awkward, insecure, and funny. The character of Mr. Wickham is similar to Fielding’s Daniel Cleaver. They are handsome, successful, and popular with women. While Mr. Wickham enjoys Elizabeth’s company, Mr. Cleaver tries to win Bridget’s heart. Both gentlemen make up stories of their long-time friendship with Darcy. These lies finally make Bridget and Elizabeth neglect them. They act almost in the same way, trying to get ladies’ affection.
Mark Darcy and his counterpart Fitzwilliam are the saviors in both books. In Bridget Jones’ Diary, Mark spares her mom from prison and disgrace. Remember the moment when she chances jail due to Julio’s cheating? In Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy saves Lydia, Elizabeth’s sister, from dishonor by constraining her and Wickham’s marriage. Both stories have a similar climax. It’s a happy end: Lizzy and Bridget realize they love and care for Darcy. Bridget Jones’ Diary depicts the same issues and has a similar storyline. Thus, one can consider it today’s version of Pride and Prejudice.