Oxford Blues

The 1984 film Oxford Blues is a romantic sports drama featuring the talent and charisma of young Rob Lowe, the charm of Ally Sheedy and the beauty of Amanda Pays. Set in the refined world of Oxford University, this movie is an engaging mixture of cross-cultural clash, personal determination, romantic entanglement, and rowing rivalry. Directed by Robert Boris, the movie's storyline revolves around Lowe's character, Nick Di Angelo, a Las Vegas showman who dreams of being more than his humble origins.

Rob Lowe sparkles in the role of Nick Di Angelo, a young man who dreams big and is driven by passion. Nick is a working class lad living in Las Vegas, eking out a living as a hotel valet while striving to make his mark in life. Swept up in the grandeur and prestige of British blue-blood traditions after falling for a charming British girl, Nick becomes determined to join the ranks of the elite students at Oxford University. He uses his gambling skills and a stroke of good fortune to finance a trip to England's iconic educational institution.

Upon arriving at Oxford, Nick quickly realises that his brash American style conflicts heavily with the old-world English sensibilities. His efforts to fit into the distinguished world of space-age libraries and age-old traditions are both humorous and Man versus Society clash. Lowe’s strong performance captures the trials and tribulations that come with plunging into an entirely new setting where the norms and expectations are vastly different from what one has always known.

Ally Sheedy plays Rona, a fellow American student at Oxford, who becomes Nick’s friend and guide. Rona’s character is warm, understanding and she provides a sense of familiarity and stability for Nick in the midst of his culture shock. Sheedy portrays Rona with a quiet strength and an empathetic demeanor, creating a character who is both likeable and relatable.

Adding to the complexity of Nick’s new life is Lady Victoria, played by the exquisite Amanda Pays. Lady Victoria is an aristocrat of the highest order, who finds herself intrigued by the new American student. Lady Victoria’s character is integral to the story, as she becomes an object of desire for Nick, complicating his life in Oxford even further. Pays’ portrayal of the character is layered with a mix of cool aloofness, unintentional charm, and vulnerable curiosity.

It is against this backdrop that Nick finds himself embroiled in the heat of the Oxford rowing tradition. The rowing scenes form the epicenter of the athletic component of the plot with the prestigious Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race as the dramatic climax. This element of the movie offers audiences a glimpse into the world of collegiate rowing and the fierce rivalries that exist within.

Overall, the atmosphere and architecture of Oxford University play a significant role in this film, providing a beautiful and historic backdrop to the story. Through opulent ballrooms, intricate courtyards, and river-side scenery, the radiance of the prestigious institution is captured with finesse.

As one can expect from a movie of this era, 'Oxford Blues' has a very ‘80s vibe with a highly entertaining and memorable synth-heavy soundtrack. The film offers viewers a nostalgic trip to the fashion trends, musical hits, and overall atmosphere of that time period.

While the film certainly has its comedic and light-hearted moments, the story retains a depth and deals with themes of self-discovery, ambition, and the struggle between social classes. It’s a classic tale of an underdog striving to find his place amid a very different cultural context.

In summation, Oxford Blues is an enjoyable comedy-drama from the mid-80s that captures the pursuit of dreams, university life, love and intense sportsmanship, and cultural clashes. With compelling performances delivered by Rob Lowe, Ally Sheedy and Amanda Pays, the film manages to maintain a perfect balance between drama, romance, and sport. Underneath its charm and humour, the film challenges audience’s perceptions about social status, ambition, and the courage it takes to defy norms and conventions. Oxford Blues stands as a genuinely entertaining film that carries its moments of joy, struggle, and triumph in equal measures.