The romantic drama series Off Campus has captivated a global audience, drawing 36 million viewers in its initial 12 days and securing a second season. The show is being lauded for its fresh approach to relationships, prioritizing women’s pleasure and offering a depiction of healthy masculinity and minimal relationship effort.

Navigating Complex Themes with Sensitivity

Beyond its romantic entanglements, Off Campus delves into significant issues such as sexual assault and trauma. The series, adapted from Elle Kennedy’s novel The Deal, centers on the evolving relationship between college students Hannah Wells and ice hockey captain Garrett Graham. While the fake dating trope is familiar, the series distinguishes itself through its “sex-positive and inclusive” themes, which experts describe as empowering.

Sexologist and clinical psychologist Lauren French notes that the show embraces the complexities and vulnerabilities inherent in relationships. “Sex isn’t just passion against a wall or boring missionary behind the sheets, it actually goes, ‘No, this is exciting, erotic, really desirable, pleasurable sex,'” French explains. She adds that the series handles conflicts and deeper emotional journeys with a measured approach.

The Appeal of Emotional Safety

Despite its college-setting, Off Campus has resonated with a broad demographic, sparking widespread online discussion and reflection among viewers. The character of Garrett Graham, in particular, has garnered attention for his consistent focus on Hannah’s emotional safety.

Armin Ariana, a sexologist and associate professor at Griffith University, highlights the significance of a male character who is present and responsive to his female partner’s needs. “Being a male character who is present and who’s being guided by the female, that is wonderful,” Ariana states. He emphasizes that this approach contrasts with the often performance-driven anxieties men can experience, suggesting the show promotes the importance of presence over performance in intimacy.

A scene where Garrett seeks advice on female orgasms underscores this point. His friend’s counsel emphasizes trust and ensuring a partner feels safe and relaxed, highlighting foreplay as crucial. French agrees, describing this focus on trust and vulnerability as a refreshing alternative to simplistic romantic tropes. “It went, ‘Actually it’s trust, vulnerability, [and] how do we set that up safely?'” she says. The show also offers a glimpse into the vulnerability of traditionally masculine male characters, a dynamic rarely seen.

Centering Female Desire and Well-being

Garrett’s actions in subsequent intimate scenes demonstrate his understanding of Hannah’s comfort and pleasure. French characterizes his attentiveness as a welcome change, describing the experience of watching it as akin to a “big warm hug—with some hot sex.”

Addressing Trauma with Care

The emphasis on emotional and physical safety is particularly poignant given the characters’ past experiences with abuse and trauma. Hannah’s history of sexual assault in high school adds a significant layer to her journey.

Ellie Freedman, a sexual health physician, believes that storylines focusing on safety and vulnerability are vital for survivors of abuse and those who have experienced unsafe sexual encounters. She defines unsafe sex as any experience that feels wrong, unenjoyable, or lacking in control, noting that many individuals may not categorize such experiences as assault.

The sensitive portrayal of these themes on screen can also assist those in relationships with survivors, offering guidance on how to approach these sensitive topics. While Hannah has a supportive network, her healing process is depicted as non-linear, with ups and downs being a common aspect of recovery from sexual assault or abuse, as noted by Dr. Ariana.

Ultimately, Off Campus is recognized for its skillful navigation of fantasy, pleasure, and sex. French commends the series for presenting women as sexual beings without resorting to shame, underscoring the importance of acknowledging young people’s sexuality as a fundamental part of their identity.