14/28
The film, based on a true story, had its world premiere at the Heartland International Film Festival in Indianapolis, IN on Saturday, October 8, 2022
Narrative
Brilliant but emotionally reserved Caro Drake arrives at Oxford with the singular goal of earning her doctorate, but through a stormy friendship with a charming young man, she begins to open up to mystery, vulnerability, and love. Carolyn Weber, the author of the book, whose biographical novel the film was based on, was in attendance with actress Rose Reid, who played Caro Drake in the film, and the rest of the production.
And I have to admit, this film is very good
Christmas Eve in My Hometown Written by Stanley William Zabka and Donald Upton Starring Eddie Fisher (1951 film). I knew nothing about this film, I showed up, it had an introduction from the author of the book – Carolyn Weber, and the producer as well.
The introduction says it’s a romantic film, which it is, but it really delves into the main character – Carolyn’s life from her childhood in America and Oxford, England
Roes Reid is brilliant as Carolyn, who struggles with her studies, her strange romances and whether she’s religious after meeting Kent Weber, played with great conviction by Ruairi O’Connor. She’s a very religious person and her opinions and those of others really make Carolyn question her life and what she really wants and what she thinks of others.
I give it a 75/10 because Oxford surprised me
Oxford looks great, Ryan Whitaker’s direction is spot on, capturing the Oxford setting and the cast, which includes stars like Simon Callow, Jordan Alexandra, Emma Naomi, a very memorable Lourdes Faberes and the wonderful Phyllis Logan, who is quite volatile. and starts off very stiffly but is also a real driving force.