Happy Monday! Happy week!
I’m delighted to tell you about a movie available to rent or buy this month of November!
You are now able to watch SURPRISED BY OXFORD from the comfort of
your own home.
Step inside the beauty of Oxford University and discover a timeless story about asking lifeβs big questions.
I bought the book in 2022 and love it. Obviously, I was excited when I heard there was a film coming out. {Now….sshhhhhh…..the book IS better, in my opinion, but I loved watching the movie and I love the movie option for people who will never pick up the book.}
I mean…………..look at some of these scenes…………the beauty of England and Oxford always grabs me and this movie contains many beautiful cinematic scenes.
And it was great fun to see Phyllis Logan {Mrs. Hughes in Downton Abbey} in this film as the Provost who had a big impact of Caro Drake. I also loved that Annie F. Downs makes a tiny appearance as a high school teacher. {I’ve long loved Annie F. Downs books and work and podcast.} When her character popped on the screen it was a surprise as I didn’t know she was in it and I gave a literal shout-out at my tv of “Annie F. Downs!” π
And in further fun actress notes, Carolyn Weber {the book author}{formerly Caro Drake} makes an appearance in the movie as a C.S. Lewis lecturer.
For those who want to know, there are definite sexual references and conversations about sex in this movie. No scenes. And the conversations fit in the real-life experience, questions, and struggles of real-life human people and the lifechoices many people make and paths they choose to navigate.
There is humor and there are thought-provoking questions, answers, and debates. The Eagle and Child makes an appearance and C.S. Lewis does as well in quotes, book, and portrait.
AND, Blackwell’s bookshop is in it, comrade friends! An Oxford bookseller since 1879.
Here are a couple quotes that stood out to me and captured my musing:
- “But I have known some brilliant people who lived lives of quiet desperation. The strength you speak of. Perhaps you’re looking for it in the wrong place.”
- “I remember being overwhelmed with beauty and sadness all in the same moment.”
I’d love to hear what YOU love about the movie and what conversations capture your attention as you move through the story on film.
Enter the giveaway!
A great, big thank you to Evolve Studios for providing a sample of the product for this review.
All opinions are completely my own.
kettle corn and hot chocolate