Amazon's new series Off Campus, a romance centered around a star hockey player with personal struggles, seeks to capture an audience drawn to sports-themed love stories.
Comparisons and Expectations
The show inevitably draws comparisons to HBO's successful Heated Rivalry. While not as intense in its portrayal of hockey or romance, Off Campus holds its own with a sweet narrative that appeals to fans of familiar romance tropes.
Created by Louisa Levy and based on Elle Kennedy's books, the series blends familiar plot devices like “opposites attract” and “fake dating,” delivering a comforting, if predictable, experience for viewers.
Plot and Characters
The story unfolds on a generic New England college campus, featuring Hannah (Ella Bright), a music major infatuated with aspiring rock star Justin (Josh Heuston), and Garrett (Belmont Cameli), the NHL-bound hockey team captain struggling academically.
In a bid to boost his grades, Garrett proposes a deal with Hannah: tutoring in exchange for pretending to date, aiming to make Justin jealous. Despite the unlikely premise, the show uses it as a vehicle to explore the chemistry between two characters from different social circles.
Performance and Chemistry
Initially, Garrett's stoicism contrasts with Hannah's vivacious energy. However, as their relationship develops, Cameli effectively reveals Garrett's softer side, enhancing the show's charm. Their relationship blossoms amid a backdrop of college life, with Hannah often confiding in her theater enthusiast friend Allie, played by Mika Abdalla.
Tonal Shifts and Storytelling
The series balances lighthearted romance with deeper themes, though not always seamlessly. The eight-hour season occasionally stumbles with abrupt tonal shifts and awkward dialogue. Scenes oscillate between playful banter and serious topics, such as a conversation that shifts from Dirty Dancing to a critique of hockey's violent image.
As the series progresses, darker backstories emerge, adding complexity to the characters’ romantic journey. Although this shift disrupts the narrative flow, it ultimately enriches the characters.
Towards the season's end, focus shifts from Hannah and Garrett to another potential couple among their friends, hinting at the series' future direction. This transition suggests a strategic move to explore new storylines in subsequent seasons.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-reviews/off-campus-review-amazon-hockey-1236593481/
