Surprised by Oxford is a cinematic experience that seamlessly blends the allure of Oxford’s historic architecture with a captivating narrative of self-discovery, friendship, and love.
Directed and written by Ryan Whitaker, the movie boasts a notable ensemble cast, including actors from acclaimed television series The Crown, Bridgerton, and Downton Abbey. Surprised by Oxford recently premiered in a featured slot at the Heartland Film Festival, where it captivated audiences.
Based on Carolyn Weber’s memoir, Surprised by Oxford follows the journey of Caro Drake, a driven and guarded young woman determined to achieve her PhD at the prestigious Oxford University.
Headlined by Rose Reid (Finding You, The Shift), the film takes viewers on a transformative and tumultuous journey as Caro begins an unexpected friendship with a charming young man, played by Ruairi O’Connor (The Morning Show), which propels her on a profound exploration of mystery, vulnerability, and love.
Surprised by Oxford features Phyllis Logan (Downton Abbey), Mark Williams (Harry Potter films), and Simon Callow (Hawkeye, Shakespeare In Love) in pivotal roles. Emma Naomi (Bridgerton), Michael Culkin (The Crown, Poldark), Annabelle Holloway (The Walking Dead, Ordinary Joe), Lourdes Faberes (No Time to Die, Boiling Point), Ed Stoppard (The Crown, Judy), and Tyler Merritt (The Falcon and The Winter Soldier) also appear.
Whitaker expressed his gratitude for the outstanding cast and crew that brought Carolyn Weber’s story to life, against the breathtaking backdrop of Oxford. “I was captivated by Carolyn’s memoir when I first read it, and immediately saw its clear potential as a film. It’s been an honour to travel to Oxford to tell her story on screen,” said Whitaker.
Surprised by Oxford invites audiences into a world of romance, reason, and high calling. The true-life story of college-aged American Caro Drake is a wonder-filled exploration of life’s beauty and complexity, experienced in a manner not entirely dissimilar to C.S. Lewis’s famous awakening nearly a century ago in the hallowed halls of Oxford, England.
