Off-Campus: Brutality on the Rink, Vulnerability off it

Comment - Vivien Vetriolo

The college set-romantic drama Off-Campus, based on the same-titled books by Elle Kennedy, follows the unexpected love story of a music student and a college star hockey player and explores themes such as love, friendship and adulthood.

Ella Bright and Belmont Cameli starring as Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham in Off-Campus (2026) / Photo: Imdb

The Deal

The first season follows the story of Hannah Wells (Ella Bright), a shy music student, and Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli), a very popular Ice Hockey Player on the college’s team. They strike a mutually beneficial deal, which consists of Hannah tutoring Garrett to pass his class, and he in return will help her get the attention of her crush, Justin Kohl (Josh Heuston). Their fake relationship eventually turns into a real romance while navigating college life, friendships, traumas and growing up.

Showing Vulnerability in Men

The TV Show has risen to international fame since its debut on Prime. A reason for that could be the portrayal of not only attractive young men, but their openness when it comes to vulnerability and emotions. As a book reader, I knew the story beforehand and was therefore very curious in how the adaptation might portray and show male ice hockey players engage in relationships. While several of the players are being shown promiscuous at the beginning, the adaption shows the emotional development of the main characters, such as Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli) and Dean Di Laurentis (Stephen Kalyn). Throughout the episodes they are being shown expressing vulnerability in several ways. Both Hannah and Garrett went through traumatic experiences in their past. They gradually open up and talk about it, portraying the characters as emotionally available.

This vulnerability is not only shown in their romantic relationships, but also in their friendships. A crucial moment between Garrett and his best friend Logan (Antonio Cipriano), in which they both express their feelings, shows that their friendship consists of dependence and loyalty.

Consent and Respect

Hannah talking to Garrett about her trauma, displaying vulnerability / Photo: Imdb

Just as in the books, the development of sexual relationships is a strong and big component of the storyline in the show, especially with the protagonist of the first seasons. A confession of Hannah to Garrett regarding her past, changes the outcome and development of their relationship. The viewer gets to experience how young adults deal with traumatic experiences. The adaptation puts a strong emphasis on the importance of communication and respect. The characters are constantly seen checking on each other, setting a good example for the younger audience. The openness in which their talk about boundaries present healthy romantic and sexual relationships. The characters learn that sex involves mutual comfort and consideration.

Fun and Banter

Dean, Beau (Khobe Clarke) and Tucker enjoying a night-out at the Drunken Shakespeare / Photo: Imdb

Despite the deeply emotional moments, created by the mise-en-scène and flashbacks of the protagonists traumas, Off-Campus shares many funny and light moments. The light and energetic atmosphere is kept through fast banter, specifically between the hockey boys. Garrett, Logan, Dean and Tucker are constantly seen teasing and jokingly picking on each other, not only easing the tension, but also creating funny moments. A lot of fun is created thanks to the facts that the characters truly enjoy spending time together. You get the feeling that you would want to watch the show, even if the romances were not there, due to their chemistry.

A Succesfull Adaption

From left to right: John Tucker (Jalen Thomas Brooks), Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli), Hannah Wells (Ella Bright), Dean Di Laurentis (Stephen Kalyn) and John Logan (Antonio Cipriano) cooking together / Photo: Imdb

While I was initially disappointed in not seeing many crucial scenes of the book in the show, the multiple rewatches have softened my scrutiny. The combination of funny and emotional scenes made the show truly watchable and enjoyable. The strong chemistry between the lead actors added to the playful banters, tension and emotional payoffs. The show’s friendships feel meaningful, emphasizing a strong bond based on loyalty and honesty. Off-Campus is a good mixture of fun and playfulness, but also seriousness, making the watching and the anticipation more interesting and exciting.