01-08-2025
My Oxford Year review: An imperfect yet effective slow-burn anchored by Sofia, Corey
Adapted from Julia Whelan's bestselling novel of the same name, 'My Oxford Year' is a quiet, reflective romance that nudges you to question what really makes love meaningful, is it longevity, or is it intensity lived at the moment?For Bollywood viewers who've grown up romanticising films like 'Kal Ho Naa Ho', there's something strikingly familiar here. It's not the melodrama or the grand declarations, but the emotional core, an aching, tender love story wrapped in self-discovery, illness, timing, and Sofia Carson and Corey Mylchreest, 'My Oxford Year' follows the story of Anna, a bright and ambitious American scholar, who lands at Oxford with her future already planned. However, despite her plans, what she doesn't expect is to fall for Jamie, a charming professor, and a British man. This unexpected romance trickles down to the exploration of different meanings to love and relationship. At its core, this is a story about love, loss, and living with intention.
Carson and Mylchreest are both deeply watchable. Their simmering chemistry doesn't demand attention, it earns it. Theirs is a love language of poetry, long walks, unspoken glances, and one particularly poignant moment where a simple 'thank you' is met with 'I love you too.' It's heartbreakingly beautiful. The film leans into the old-school, slow-burn charm of nerdy romance. There's palpable romantic tension, which is backed by thoughtful writing that never overplays its hand. Sofia and Corey bring a quiet depth to their roles, never making their characters feel like genre said, not everything works seamlessly for the film. The subplot involving Jamie's family dynamics feels undercooked, which, if explored, would have provided a better emotional arc to the story. Some scenes glide past moments that deserve more narrative where 'My Oxford Year' truly succeeds is in its emotional takeaway. Much like Aman from 'Kal Ho Naa Ho', Jamie's arc isn't just about romance, it's about choice, and finding beauty in impermanence. The film gently nudges you to live - deliberately, honestly, and with a full heart. Remember what Aman said? 'Jiyo, Khush raho, Muskurao. Kya Pata Kal Ho Naa Ho (Live, Be Happy, Smile, you don't know about tomorrow!)''My Oxford Year' is a romantic drama that rewards patience. It may not be perfect, but it leaves you thinking, feeling, and wondering about the kind of love that doesn't need to be loud to be unforgettable. For anyone who still believes in letters over texts and love over logic, this one might just be for you.'My Oxford Year' is now available on Netflix.- Ends3.5 out of 5 stars to My Oxford May Also Like
