Trafalgar Releasing, Evolve Studios, and Nook Lane Entertainment are releasing the highly anticipated film Surprised by Oxford for a limited global theatrical engagement in cinemas on September 27 and October 1.
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.
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.
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 honor to travel to Oxford to tell her story on screen,” said Whitaker.
“Our cast and crew delivered in an exemplary way,” said producer Ken Carpenter of Nook Lane Entertainment. “Working in Oxford was a charmed experience. The fusion of our American team with our British colleagues–on both sides of the camera–helped shape a story that audiences are finding both thoughtful and engaging,” Carpenter said.
“Working closely with Carolyn and Rose to tell this uniquely strong female story was very personally gratifying” said producer and Evolve Studio’s Jen Lewis.
“We’re thrilled to distribute Surprised by Oxford to movie theaters worldwide,” said Kymberli Frueh, senior vice president for programming and content acquisitions for Trafalgar Releasing. “This best-selling book has C.S. Lewis, faith and romantic elements blended together as a perfect film. This is definitely an event to add to your must-see this fall.”