If you loved the heartfelt journey and intellectual charm of 'Surprised by Oxford' (2023), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same blend of romance, academia, and personal growth. Whether you're drawn to emotional storytelling or inspiring character arcs, these recommendations will keep you engaged.

Maurice (1987)
Description: A poignant story of forbidden love and self-acceptance, set in early 20th-century England, highlighting the struggles of identity and societal expectations.
Fact: The film is based on E.M. Forster's novel, which was published posthumously. It was one of the first mainstream films to depict a gay romance positively.


The Remains of the Day (1993)
Description: A period drama that explores themes of duty, unspoken love, and the quiet sacrifices made in the service of others, set against a backdrop of English tradition.
Fact: The film is based on Kazuo Ishiguro's Booker Prize-winning novel. It was nominated for eight Academy Awards.


The Secret Garden (1993)
Description: A heartwarming tale of discovery and healing, set in a sprawling English estate, emphasizing the transformative power of nature and friendship.
Fact: The film is based on Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic children's novel. It was partially shot in the stunning landscapes of North Yorkshire.


Good Will Hunting (1997)
Description: Centers on a young janitor with an extraordinary intellect who is discovered by a professor, exploring themes of self-discovery, mentorship, and the value of education.
Fact: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck wrote the screenplay while they were struggling actors. The film won two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay.


A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Description: A story of a gifted mathematician whose genius is both a blessing and a curse, highlighting the struggles of mental illness and the pursuit of academic excellence.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the life of John Nash, a Nobel Laureate in Economics. The screenplay took over a decade to develop due to the complexity of Nash's life.


Brideshead Revisited (2008)
Description: A tale of love, faith, and aristocracy, set in the hallowed halls of an elite institution, reflecting on personal and societal constraints.
Fact: The film is an adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's classic novel. It was previously adapted into a highly acclaimed TV series in


The Oxford Murders (2008)
Description: A mystery thriller set in an academic environment, blending intellectual puzzles with a gripping narrative, much like the intrigue of scholarly life.
Fact: The film is based on a novel by Argentine writer Guillermo Martínez. It was shot on location in Oxford, capturing the university's historic ambiance.


The Imitation Game (2014)
Description: Focuses on the life of a cryptanalyst working at a prestigious institution, blending historical drama with themes of intellectual brilliance and personal sacrifice.
Fact: The film is based on the biography of Alan Turing, who played a pivotal role in cracking the Enigma code during WWII. It was shot in just 50 days.


The Theory of Everything (2014)
Description: This film explores the life of a brilliant academic navigating personal and professional challenges, set against the backdrop of a prestigious university. It delves into themes of intellectual pursuit, love, and resilience.
Fact: The film is based on the memoir of Jane Hawking, which details her life with Stephen Hawking. Eddie Redmayne spent months studying ALS to accurately portray Hawking's physical decline.


Hidden Figures (2016)
Description: Tells the story of brilliant women working in a male-dominated field, emphasizing perseverance, intellect, and breaking societal barriers.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of African-American mathematicians at NASA. The screenplay was inspired by a non-fiction book of the same name.
