Dead Poets Society
Buena Vista Pictures | Release Date: June 16, 1989
8.3
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 300 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
269
Mixed:
19
Negative:
12
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User Reviews

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9
ichiroSep 1, 2012
One of the best movies I watched. It helped me through a lot in my life. Williams was pretty good in that movie - his character made me rethink everything. I enjoyed the movie from the beginning until the end. And even though I'm a male, IOne of the best movies I watched. It helped me through a lot in my life. Williams was pretty good in that movie - his character made me rethink everything. I enjoyed the movie from the beginning until the end. And even though I'm a male, I cried at the ending.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
RachelMay 22, 2007
It is probably the most influential movie I've seen in my life. I was truly inspired to change. Everyone should see it. CARPE DIEM!
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
moonman1994Jul 26, 2013
An excellent film with great writing and great acting by the entire cast. The film has a great message and it is in no way predictable. Also the story line is extremely gripping. That is what makes this film truly great.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Potarto72Dec 21, 2014
There are two sides to Dead Poets Society ,and one of them makes me want to call it one of the greatest films ever made. The other makes it seem shallow and unimportant.
Robin Williams gives a good performance as the teacher who liberatesThere are two sides to Dead Poets Society ,and one of them makes me want to call it one of the greatest films ever made. The other makes it seem shallow and unimportant.
Robin Williams gives a good performance as the teacher who liberates the students, and teaches them to stand up to authority, but sometimes the direction of the film forces him to do his typical comedy routine, when that type of humor has no place in this film. Sometimes the film is just too stereotypical and cliche to appreciate properly, and other times it does an excellent job conveying a message we haven't all seen before. So if there's such a balance of good and bad, why the high rating?
The ending of this film brings a tragedy, which I won't spoil. It is this tragedy, this unexpected, shocking, unusually brutal tragedy that makes Dead Poets Society more than just another Robin Williams comedy. It becomes an echo of the cry for help from American teenagers, and embodies that desperation, that struggle so brilliantly that I have to love this film. Regardless of its shortcomings and cliches early on, it takes such a drastic measure to burn its message in the viewers mind that it sets itself far apart from the image it has on the surface. The film's climax truly pushes it over the edge towards greatness.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
phishyphishyOct 21, 2014
This was one of those movies I hadn't seen, but had kind of seen. I've seen snippets aired on TV, and mostly new the plot. However, this was the first time I sat down and watched it beginning to end. I liked it. Sometimes it's message feltThis was one of those movies I hadn't seen, but had kind of seen. I've seen snippets aired on TV, and mostly new the plot. However, this was the first time I sat down and watched it beginning to end. I liked it. Sometimes it's message felt trite, but it's saved by wonderful acting performances. The best thing I can say about this film is that it holds up.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
Giorgi751Sep 9, 2015
If you are going wo watch this film, don' expect anything new. Its banal and unoriginal overall. Robin Williams is miscast as well. Despite his charisma he seems forced. The only remarkable thing about the film is Ethan Hawke's performance.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
grandpajoe6191Sep 18, 2011
Although "Dead Poets Society" copies the original book with no prominent changes, It still lives as a classic movie.
4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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9
Spielberg00Sep 15, 2011
There's absolutely no question as to why DEAD POETS SOCIETY was nominated for Best Picture in 1989. Truly, if it weren't for the fact that a few critics thought Robin Williams should have just gone back to comedies (an absolutely idioticThere's absolutely no question as to why DEAD POETS SOCIETY was nominated for Best Picture in 1989. Truly, if it weren't for the fact that a few critics thought Robin Williams should have just gone back to comedies (an absolutely idiotic statement, in my opinion, though I can see a slight bit of their reasoning), this would have easily won the award. "Carpe diem; seize the day, boys!" If that one quote is remembered centuries from now, don't expect me to be at all surprised. DEAD POETS SOCIETY was like a tragic, sometimes witty drama that is one of Robin Williams' best yet.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
StaticSpineApr 2, 2015
A thought-provoking and emotionally-engaging drama about one simple fact: nobody can teach you how to live your life. A great performance by Robin Williams.
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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5
cyclecritSep 7, 2010
For me this film works until the final 10 minutes were it descends into an implausible maelstrom of madness.

If you decide to watch this, maybe take the ending with a grain of salt. This way you might get more enjoyment from the experience.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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0
BroyaxJan 11, 2017
J'ai du mal à m'en rappeler, car à chaque fois je pionce pendant tout le film comme un dimanche après-midi devant Drucker. Au moins ce bon vieux Michel a-t-il le mérite de me réveiller de temps à autre dès qu'il pose l'inévitable question àJ'ai du mal à m'en rappeler, car à chaque fois je pionce pendant tout le film comme un dimanche après-midi devant Drucker. Au moins ce bon vieux Michel a-t-il le mérite de me réveiller de temps à autre dès qu'il pose l'inévitable question à ses invités endormis : "vous aimez les chiens ?'

Alors je lui réponds que j'adore les chiens. A la broche. Le cercle des poètes disparus (heureusement qu'ils sont disparus, morts d'ennui sans doute !) me fait le même effet et déclenche une haine encore plus forte de tout ce qui touche à la poésie et autre pseudo-littérature intello-pleurnicharde. Un prof comme ce Robin Williams, ça donne des envies de meurtre. Au fusil de chasse. Dans la tête.

C'est la "philosophie de la vie" à la petite semaine, sirupeuse à souhait, tellement bon enfant gnangnan que je cours me réfugier chez Casimir pour qu'il me fasse un bon gloubiboulga. Casimir ne pérore pas, ne pontifie pas non plus comme cette troupe d'étudiants complètement schlass en admiration malsaine devant ce prof bêtifié qui raconte n'importe quoi pour remplir du vide.… Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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8
anshimanJan 11, 2013
This is a film whose very fibers engender truly moving sentiments through what is Williams' best performance to date, an illustrious script and an overall gorgeous portrayal of honest human emotions. 'Dead Poet's Society' is packed withThis is a film whose very fibers engender truly moving sentiments through what is Williams' best performance to date, an illustrious script and an overall gorgeous portrayal of honest human emotions. 'Dead Poet's Society' is packed with memorable one-liners that are consistently quoted in the film world, and can proudly be called a film classic.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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10
LarisseI.Aug 16, 2006
This story is the best! Especially for those people that are still studying that are having great pressure at their academics. You have to watch this film!! It can help you realize things about your life especially in your studies.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
SarahBOct 22, 2005
I loved Dead Poets Society! It had tons of meaning, great references to literature and a touching ending!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
LacieZ.Oct 30, 2005
Great movie....Beginning had me thinking it would be horrible, but i kept and open mind and it enden up being awsome. It is a very inspiring film and it it send out a strong message about the dangers of conformity. i absolutly loved it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
CheyenneC.Dec 7, 2005
Carpe diem-all!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
StephenW.Aug 27, 2005
One of the best movies ever made.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
NatN.Mar 7, 2007
Extremly good movie that explores our deepest desires and the situations that get in our way.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
mikem.Oct 11, 2005
A classic.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PedroA.Oct 26, 2005
Iv'e seen thins movie dozens of times and on all of them the magic is allways there.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
KatarinaJ.Dec 30, 2006
Very Good Movie! Well done! Great acting and alot of great actors.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
ERG1008Aug 23, 2010
Man returns to teach at the school where he studied, gets his students to speak & express themselves from within, students stumble upon secret society that teacher was in, school tradition, discipline & parents disapprove.
Well written filmMan returns to teach at the school where he studied, gets his students to speak & express themselves from within, students stumble upon secret society that teacher was in, school tradition, discipline & parents disapprove.
Well written film with a great performance by Robin Williams & a very young Ethan Hawke. It is quite predictable but the iconic scene at the end is very powerful.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
TokyochuchuJun 25, 2012
Dead Poet's Society is an easy to watch coming-of-age / youth-against-the-man flick which espouses the beauty and meaning of literature. It's well acted and written, with a nice lightness of touch. Dead Poets Society is in no way revelatoryDead Poet's Society is an easy to watch coming-of-age / youth-against-the-man flick which espouses the beauty and meaning of literature. It's well acted and written, with a nice lightness of touch. Dead Poets Society is in no way revelatory or profound but it is entertaining.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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7
HalfwelshmanFeb 4, 2012
I must admit, Dead Poets Society has been slightly ruined for me by the numerous parodies and references to it both on TV and in films over the years. I guess it's my own fault for not seeing it sooner. It hinges on a fantastic centralI must admit, Dead Poets Society has been slightly ruined for me by the numerous parodies and references to it both on TV and in films over the years. I guess it's my own fault for not seeing it sooner. It hinges on a fantastic central performance by Robin Williams, playing Mr. Keating, the physical embodiment of everyone's perfect teacher. He teaches a subject many would find dull, poetry, in unorthodox ways, not through reading from textbooks and note-taking, but through fun exercises and physical activity, and unlike the rest of the prep school teachers, he genuinely cares for his students. The cast of young actors playing Keating's students that re-form the titular Dead Poets Society that Keating founded in his youth, all do their part, but of particular note is Ethan Hawke's captivating break-out role as the painfully shy and troubled Todd Anderson. His characterisation results in one of the best scenes in the film, where Mr. Keating puts Todd on the spot and forces him to improvise a poem in front of his class, and through doing so, cures Todd of his crippling lack of confidence. The story does take a little while to get going, and the overall running time of the film feels a little gruelling, though the final act is superb. What surprised, and disappointed me the most about Dead Poets Society, considering how etched into popular culture it has become, is how little it actually had to say. There's only so far you can take the "seize the day" moral - Keating's students may be encouraged to have fun and enjoy life, but what happens when they all sit their exams, when they realise their teacher has taught them much about life, but not a whole lot they than actually apply to their studies? (Unless they plan to stand on their desk as a protest to archaic teaching methods for the rest of their education). It's a pleasant fantasy that you can get through school and university, and achieve your ambitions simply by living life to the full, but not a realistic one. Though if you're just looking for a pleasant bit of fantasy escapism with good performances, plenty of humour and heart, then look no further than Dead Poets Society. Though director Peter Weir has done far more intelligent, brilliant films since (The Truman Show, Master and Commander), it was this twee little comedy-drama that introduced him to the mainstream, and allowed his Hollywood career to blossom.… Expand
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7
Tss5078Sep 30, 2014
Dead Poets Society is considered by many to be the crowning achievement of Robin Williams career. There is no dispute over Williams performance, as it is considered to be one of the best of all time, and the film is so revivered, that it'sDead Poets Society is considered by many to be the crowning achievement of Robin Williams career. There is no dispute over Williams performance, as it is considered to be one of the best of all time, and the film is so revivered, that it's require viewing in many education classes, but just how good a film was it? Robin Williams stars as Professor John Keating, an unconventional teacher who inspired his students to push the boundaries of the way they think. Keating's students worship him and reform the old club he was a founding member of as a student, The Dead Poets Society. Keating's unconventional thinking pushes his students, but the question is will it push some of them too far from the norm, at their strict boarding school? The performances makes this film, as you will see some amazing things. As for the story, it really isn't anything more than a means to present the characters. When you take away the performances, the truth is that this film is about a traditional boarding school, an English class, and a poetry club, not the most interesting of stories. Dead Poets Society is rather slow moving and one begins to question just how meaningful a club like this would be, especially in today's digital world. When it comes to Dead Poets Society, I loved the performances, but wasn't crazy about the film as a whole. I think the storyline is lacking, the characters aren't as unconventional as they could have been, and things move much too slowly for mainstream audiences. That being said, if you are a movie lover, this film is like It's A Wonderful Life and Citizen Kane in that it may not be the best of films, but it is a part of cinematic history that must be scene for it's undeniably outstanding performances and it's contribution to the history of film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
SpangleNov 26, 2014
An incredibly emotional and inspirational film, Dead Poets Society stands tall as a great film in the coming of age category. Robin Williams is absolutely brilliant. Truly a great performance on his part and his charisma really shinesAn incredibly emotional and inspirational film, Dead Poets Society stands tall as a great film in the coming of age category. Robin Williams is absolutely brilliant. Truly a great performance on his part and his charisma really shines through. He is entirely believable and the inspirational and caring teacher. The performances from the younger actors is also good. The direction from Peter Weir, writing from Tom Schulman, and cinematography from John Seale, are also all great and all increase the impact this drama has on its viewers. It can get a little sentimental at times and it gets dark pretty quick at times, but overall, Dead Poets Society is a smash success that needs to be watched by all. If anyone ever says that Robin Williams is not a great actor, this in particular is a great film to show them to prove them wrong, because dammit is he great. His performance is one that stays with you for a while.… Expand
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8
Compi24Nov 4, 2017
Not much to say here that hasn't been said already. It's inspiring, tragic, and thought-provoking to a masterful degree. "Dead Poets Society" is simply a fantastic drama, with a legendary lead performance from the always quotable RobinNot much to say here that hasn't been said already. It's inspiring, tragic, and thought-provoking to a masterful degree. "Dead Poets Society" is simply a fantastic drama, with a legendary lead performance from the always quotable Robin Williams and a strong central message about the importance of free thinking and artistic expression. It's definitely one of those movies you'll regret spending so much of your life without having seen (if you haven't yet, that is).… Expand
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9
arsenicCatnipJun 2, 2013
Influential, beautiful, and powerful. This film will stay in my heart forever. The acting and plot are unmatched by films of its kind, and the message will hold you tight.
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10
BlackNinja10Aug 15, 2013
This movie is a great movie, containing many different film techniques and themes which can be elaborated for further detail. The main themes; conformity, free of mind, belonging, complexity of life, individuality, and most importantlyThis movie is a great movie, containing many different film techniques and themes which can be elaborated for further detail. The main themes; conformity, free of mind, belonging, complexity of life, individuality, and most importantly discovery, which can make this film a great secondary source for the HSC students learning the discovery content.
The Dead Poet's Society is about a group of boys bounded together from experience and friendship. There are many different quotes from famous poets, such as Robert Frost's "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I...I took the one less travelled by and that made all the difference". The use of allusion has allowed the director to communicate effectly the idea of the scene.
A story of many different boys and from many different perspectives, the boys and the world, revolve together around poetry, enhanced by the use of literary allusion and film techniques.
The film is a excellent story which speaks of the balance of life and experiences of it. It teaches us how the schools' systems worked in the past and what you get for insubordinate behaviour.

Overall, the film is an outstanding success, and portrayed the themes and ideas fabulously.… Expand
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8
MovieGuysOct 24, 2014
Although it may be a little overrated as a whole, Dead Poets Society is still one of Peter Weir's best films, and an important if abstract look at the pressures of being a teenager and the transition into making one's own decisions.
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10
Kai82Jan 21, 2022
It was a movie we had to watch in school and actually liked. The movie had an appeal to everyone from the nerds up to the roughnecks in my class. Even more we discussed about it and it gave us some ideas. This was amazing and today I see thisIt was a movie we had to watch in school and actually liked. The movie had an appeal to everyone from the nerds up to the roughnecks in my class. Even more we discussed about it and it gave us some ideas. This was amazing and today I see this nearly as miracle. It is set in 1959 and deals with freshman in the elite all male prep school Welton Academy. Each one has his own burdens and it is a harsh place as they all were expected to be elite students no matter what. However the new teacher who is himself a former student of the academy has some unique methods that inspires them. I am a bit vague here to not spoil the plot. It is an emotional ride and an excellent drama that I fully enjoyed. This is rare for me as I don't like the drama genre. However the characters, story and message won me over. It is excellent from start to finish. Also there is a lot to analyze, discuss and learn. I think that the awesome cast improved this movie and ideas even further. For many Robin Williams role as John Keating is a highlight of his career and he never made a bad performance. He is truly excellent and many wished more teachers like him existed (Not meant as critique to real life teachers who are already heroes in a not well paid job that is hard, challenging and unrewarding). Then we have the rest of the awesome cast with Knox Overstreet played by Josh Charles, Richard Cameron played by Dylan Kussman, Neil Perry played by Robert Sean Leonard (Dr. Wilson from “Dr. House”), Charlie Dalton played by Gale Hansen, Gerard Pitts played by James Waterston, Todd Anderson played by Ethan Hawk and Norman Lloyd as (Headmaster) Gale Nolan. Each one is fully convincing and nails the role. Like I said each one has their own personality, burdens and development. Rarely ever does a cast work this well. In a case like this I have also to praise the director Peter Weir and writer Tom Schulman or better the whole team. The movie gave us a lot of noteworthy scenes and quotes like “O Captain! My Captain” or “Carpe Diem”. Also it teaches some values in a convincing way. The rest was history as it became a box office hit and well liked by critics and fans. Overall this is a movie I would recommend to everyone and to watch in school. It is not only entertaining but also teaches a lot of the right values.… Expand
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9
GregePorterAug 31, 2015
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Bottom line: Dead Poet Society is a powerful and unique motivational movie that I will almost certainly see again.

We open to an opening ceremony held in the chapel of a very old, very traditional, all male, prep school named Welton Academy. Led by a young man playing bagpipes, a line of boys walk to the front of the chapel. Four of them hold banners which state the four pillars of the school: tradition, honor, discipline, and excellence. This staunch tone is reflected in the students (and their parents) of the school. One student, Neil Perry (Leonard), has a domineering father who dictates the course for his son’s life; Neil will go to Welton, then to medical school, then become a doctor.

A new English teacher, John Keating (Williams), was hired to replace the one who had retired. His methods are unorthodox. For one of the first few days of class, he has his students read an excerpt from the introduction of the official poetry textbook. It states that one might plot a graph whose x and y axis is meter and importance, respectively. The “greatness” of a poem can be defined by its placement on that graph. Keating vehemently opposes this notion and, in the spirit of rejection, he has his students tear it out of the book. They are dumbfounded but comply.

Poetry isn’t something you can measure like a height and weight, Keating says, poetry is life. So to teach them about poetry, Keating is teaching them how to live and how to seize the day. His students, in each their own way, are touched by his teaching. Neil Perry, for example, comes to realize that he has always wanted to act and he works to make his dream a reality despite his father’s opposition.

I thoroughly enjoyed Dead Poet Society. This is a motivational movie that hit the spot and departed from what I’ve always associated with motivational subject matter. That is, it wasn’t about an athlete persevering despite physical, emotional, or political obstacles. Not that there’s anything wrong with athletics but Dead Poet Society is refreshing. The use of poetry to develop the idea of living is lovely. It isn’t about them writing poetry, mind you, it is about the students breaking from their repressive molds by learning to appreciate poetry.

Generally, I have mixed feelings about Robin Williams. Sometimes he can be a little much, but his performance as John Keating is fantastic. His antics are silly but not distracting. The acting overall is solid. It is really uplifting to see the students’ eyes light up as they develop a new outlook on life. I also really liked how the movie didn’t feel the need to give much if any epilogue. The students have a new perspective on life and that’s that. The movie doesn’t say “Student X went on to .”

I really liked the music and the cinematography. There is a shot of a fall morning with flocks of birds taking off. The camera cuts over to flocks of students filling the stairwells of the academy on their way to class. Later, after a couple weeks of Keating’s teaching, one of the boys rides his bike down a hill through a flock of birds, disrupting them and causing them to fly. It is a simple yet effective visual metaphor.

The only thing I didn’t really like is how, until obligatory sad portion, everything works out so perfectly. This isn’t anything major but I’ll describe why this is a pet peeve in my discussion post. Other than that, I had no issues with this movie. It got me pumped up and, I suppose, that’s the point of a motivational movie. I’d recommend this for any time, especially if you are feeling a little down.… Expand
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9
MarshallNFeb 17, 2019
Love this film! Touching, poignant, moving and powerful, with great performances by the entire cast. Plus, it has poetry sprinkled throughout it. HIGHLY recommended!
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10
CaroCaresApr 18, 2016
The movie takes place in a conservative elite boarding school in Vermont and is about six boys who get inspired by their English teacher to take certain risks and develop their own character: Todd Anderson a shy boy who always feels inferiorThe movie takes place in a conservative elite boarding school in Vermont and is about six boys who get inspired by their English teacher to take certain risks and develop their own character: Todd Anderson a shy boy who always feels inferior to his older brother; Neill Perry a very good student whose father forbids him any pleasure so he concentrates on school; Knox Overstreet the romantic one who is in love with an engaged girl; Richard Cameron a disloyal overachiever, Steven Meeks and Gerard Pitts best friends and mischievous Charlie Dalton often tries to escape from the “prison” of the boarding school by playing tricks on the headmaster. These boys will form the Dead Poets Society throughout the movie.
The Welton Academy is a strict school, the lessons are hard and the boys do not have any chance to create individual thoughts . The new English teacher Mister Keating shows his students the beauty of poetry by giving unconventional lessons. His intention is to make them rethink their lives and what they want to achieve. He teaches them to feel poems and not to analyse them in a theoretic mathematical way. As a tribute to Walt Whitman he wants to be called Oh Captain, my captain.
When Neill finds out that Mister Keating was student of Welton and part of the Dead Poets Society. The teacher explains to his students that it was a group of boys who read poems together. The boys revive the Dead Poet Society and enjoy these moments when they cannot be caught smoking and laughing.
Meanwhile, Neill begins to act A Midsummer Night’s Dream without his father’s permission. Knox goes to a party were he gets into trouble with Chris's boyfriend because he touched the hair of sleeping Chris. Todd is troubled with Mister Keating’s homework where they must write their own poem because he is too shy to perform it in front of the classroom. Keating helps him by inspiring him with a picture of Walt Whitman. Todd invents a poem spontaneously and the whole class is impressed.
Few days before the opening performance Neill’s father finds out that his son acts without his permission and wants him to stop. Neill goes to Mister Keating who advises him to explain to his father that acting is what he loves to do. But Neill is too afraid of his father to tell him. Unfortunately, Neill’s father comes to the performance and sees his son on stage. Afterwards Neill is directly taken home where his parents tell him that he must join the Army and that he has to study medicine. When Neill tells them that this will take away ten years of his life and he does not want to do it, his father shouts at him and says that his son has to obey. In his despair Neill commits suicide while his parents are sleeping.

The Dead Poet Society is a movie that shows the beauty of poetry, love and friendship. One can understand what the boys are feeling. These boys have always been confined between the walls of the boarding school and with parents who expect too much of them. They have no chance to form their personality. The boys have often tried to escape but the lessons of Mister Keating make them feel important as an individual with their feelings and thoughts. Keating shows them the advantages and problems concerning conformity.
As Keating prefers the romantics, especially Walt Whitman, he has an optimistic view on the world and values passion. Mister Keating never tells the boys what they have to think. His only advice is: "Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary." And this is what the boys are doing. The spectator can see how they start to enjoy lessons and question certain things even if others do not understand why. Knox risks everything when he meets Chris but he does it with passion and Neill loves acting. So they are living for themselves.
And yes even if it’s shocking: Neill’s suicide is a very important element concerning this way of thinking. Because even though they are very optimistic in general they do not want to waste their life by living in a way they hate. When Neill’s parents tell him that he has to join the army, he realizes that he would never be free. After his studies his parents would have dicided about his career, which woman to marry etc. And from his point of view this is not "Sucking all the marrow out of life”,as Mister Keating quoted from Thoreau. Neill considered that this life was not worth living anymore.

This movie shows the audience how poetry can touch and change people.
As far as I am concerned, I started to value and admire poetry in a new way. Since I have watched this movie I have even begun to read poetry in my spare time and memorize quotes I like. The six boys are all very different so everybody has one to identify with. Then we can start to reflect upon our lives and if this is the way we want to live if it makes us happy. I'm convinced that everybody wants to be or do something extraordinary.
This is definitely a movie everybody should have seen at least one time during his youth.… Expand
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9
Antgiog1202Jun 2, 2016
"O Captain! My Captain! A beautiful poem by Walt Whitman used in a beautiful film. Dead Poets Society was a brilliant piece of poetry amalgamated with a motion picture. Almost every word out of Robin Williams' mouth is inspiring and"O Captain! My Captain! A beautiful poem by Walt Whitman used in a beautiful film. Dead Poets Society was a brilliant piece of poetry amalgamated with a motion picture. Almost every word out of Robin Williams' mouth is inspiring and intellectual.

Rating: 9/10

A+ = 10
A = 9
A- = 8
B+ = 7
B = 6
B- = 5
C+ = 4
C = 3
C- = 2.5
D+ = 2
D = 1.5
D- = 1
F = 0… Expand
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9
alejandro970Jul 15, 2018
Robin Williams in one of his early efforts in drama genre. Weir develops an intelligent, inspiring higher learning combo of comedy, drama and tragedy in a dull, conservative and castrating environment in late 50s. Spot Robert Sean LeonardRobin Williams in one of his early efforts in drama genre. Weir develops an intelligent, inspiring higher learning combo of comedy, drama and tragedy in a dull, conservative and castrating environment in late 50s. Spot Robert Sean Leonard several years before House MD.… Expand
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9
TheRussianatorDec 18, 2017
Dead Poets Society once again proves that Robin Williams' acting paired with a well constructed plot can result in a beautiful piece of work, which can be watched over and over again
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8
KaustavApr 30, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dead Poets Society is absolute success in the portrayal of the truth of the individual, their individuality and the society that was formed on the back of it. The Western and every other First World Country is based in that idealism and through that achievement, pioneers and true champions have been born again and again.
The thing about DPS that I do appreciate is also want deeply haunts me that despite it's idealism, very rarely does anything slip by the realists - very much like reality. That truth is so debilitating messed up that it is almost akin to the realization that according to the stats and surveys produced, no matter what you have chosen to believe, most of us would have ended up as the accomplice to the oppression in the Holocaust than be the Hero whose list would be topic of an Oscar winning Biopic. I don't care that you think I may have overstretched my analogy because it is very much the truth in both counts. But getting back to the story, the realism wins out in those moments when Robert Sean Leonard's character chooses quicker incumbency of the inevitable grasp of death than rather face the futility and frustration of living his parents' dreams. This is also a recurrence when Robin William's (RIP, you brilliant and magnificent legend; I have no idea what you thought in the last moments of your days but if I could, I would tell you that every breath that you ever took was completely worth it and you left the world a better world than when you came into it and it was no so because it was inevitable but because you chose to make it better for those whose lives were touched by yours. So, thank you in addendum to anybody who ever made your life better and brought a smile to you) Keating is fired and students are left helpless to do anything about it till the last when they defy their necessary conformity to the school. But even then, the movie ends out an melancholic breezy high which could only be managed by the ambiguity of shot being cut then and there with a final display of approval. That is what is impressive about this movie that there is a definite parallel established in the story because of the world that exists and the world that should exist. It is beautiful in an haunting re-imposition of reality and its dread that we must fight everyday. It will also be close to my heart because of:
1) How close I feel to Neil Perry (RSL) because I could identify with the frustration he fought and lost. It makes me want to face the rough hands I have had in my life a little bit harder. I want to live and be happy in the way of Keating.
2) It contradicts on almost every story in Indian Film Industry that has been made on this topic (it might be slightly poetic that I am obsessed that I am so obsessed with pain, living in The City of Joy; Then again, Pain is a binary of Joy - Each the more building itself where the other chooses frequent). Indian movies are more emotional, more optimistic and dramatic in their flair that people will actually make the choices that Perry couldn't and people like the Perry parents and the Headmaster will actually take a chance on him and forgive him. This movie shows another very possible side of that scenario and I can appreciate that. Overall, I still do prefer movies with hopeful portrayals because if there is one thing we need some more almost everyday, it is hope. The hope that the unlikely, harder choice which may lead to a positive outcome after toil should still be fought for no matter how hard it is; which, I honestly know, easier said than done but I really wanted Perry to fight one more day even if it was and not have gone quietly into night - Rage, Rage against the dying light (I am paraphrasing Dylan Thomas's poem about this subject which was dedicated to his father). You will watch it. You need just someone to tell you that you will be alright. I will be that person and it is gonna be okay and I think you will find a more fervent desire to live life better and better yet as an definitive individual after you have watched it.… Expand
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10
FilipeNetoMar 4, 2018
In this film, the life of a conservative school for rich young people is changed by the arrival of a poetry teacher with ideas and unorthodox methods. Directed by Peter Weir, has a screenplay by Tom Schulman and features Robin Williams in theIn this film, the life of a conservative school for rich young people is changed by the arrival of a poetry teacher with ideas and unorthodox methods. Directed by Peter Weir, has a screenplay by Tom Schulman and features Robin Williams in the lead role. It won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay and is regarded as the consecration film of Williams' career.

For me, its one of most moving and uplifting films I saw. In a world where the task of teaching is often undervalued by parents, pupils and even by governments, this film shows how a teacher can change the thinking and life of a student, for the best or the worst. In order to teach its enough to know, but to be a good teacher you must have passion. And it is precisely this love of the act of teaching (and what is taught) that transforms and captivates students. Another powerful message that this film conveys is the importance of thinking in an original way, according to our own head, instead of thinking according to what others preach. Finally, the film draws attention to the limited time we have to be better than we are, "seize the day, and make your lives extraordinary".

The cast were up to the challenge but Robin Williams holds the whole audience with an accurately and deeply moving performance. The sets and costumes are good, managing to perfectly recreate the atmosphere of schools of rich and privileged students. Photography is regular. The soundtrack is good and makes a good accompaniment of the film.… Expand
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10
MasadaJul 28, 2019
Incredible acting from the young actors. Weir's decision to have them bond by having them room together really brings their brotherships alive on the screen. Williams is wonderful in this more down to earth character that is still able toIncredible acting from the young actors. Weir's decision to have them bond by having them room together really brings their brotherships alive on the screen. Williams is wonderful in this more down to earth character that is still able to dream and be passionate. "O Captain, my Captain!" at the end is one of my favourite scenes ever filmed.… Expand
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8
MunknjetMar 22, 2021
Outstanding acting by Robin Williams. I have yet to see a bad performance from him. The poetic aspects of this film are to be overlooked by many. Incredibly well written and acted, not to many cliches and it's not as cheesy as you wouldOutstanding acting by Robin Williams. I have yet to see a bad performance from him. The poetic aspects of this film are to be overlooked by many. Incredibly well written and acted, not to many cliches and it's not as cheesy as you would expect. The ending science was powerful and incredibly well done and poetic. I loved this film a lot and may I point out how much they made you hate Neils parents? That takes skill to make you hate a man who doesn't even exist so much. Touché Dead poets society. Touché… Expand
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6
lennyiSep 18, 2021
We watched this in school. Weird pick for a bunch of 13 - 15 year olds :D. Not my favourite movie, fine for what it was in the 80's or whenever it was made. Not for me since i **** despise poetry...
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9
mcleanman36Nov 29, 2021
Possible the best Robin Williams film. For it's either this or Good Morning Vietnam a movie that if it doesn't make you feel there may be something wrong with you.
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9
DuckySpooky02Oct 26, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ya me la vi más de una vez, es de las mejores que he visto. Obvio chille con el final
Me gusta mucho las partes donde comparten sus poesías… Expand
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10
eireneNov 24, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This was such an amazing movie experience. Neil and all the other boys didn't deserved this ending but the message they were trying to give was totally right. Carpe diem is actually something that people avoid to do and see. And since there were really ignorant rules at Wilton High School, kids succeeded the moral point of the story.… Expand
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7
IcarusEkshaNov 16, 2022
Meh movie, i didn't like the teen character actually, Young Ethan Hawke, Robin Williams and the one who looks like Jim Carrey carried the movie for me. Teen characters were so "stereotypical." It was hard to watch the cave scenes, dialoguesMeh movie, i didn't like the teen character actually, Young Ethan Hawke, Robin Williams and the one who looks like Jim Carrey carried the movie for me. Teen characters were so "stereotypical." It was hard to watch the cave scenes, dialogues was so lame. I would give it 5 but for the respect to Robin Williams and Ethan Hawke, 7.… Expand
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8
aycagunNov 24, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dead Poets Society is a 1989 American drama film directed by Peter Weir, it's about a English teacher who inspires his students through his teaching of poetry.He uses unorthodox methods to reach out to his students,who face enormous pressures from their parents and the school.With the teachers help,students Neil Perry,Todd Anderson and others learn to break out of their shells, pursue their dreams and seize the day.So I think its really moving and emotional.I really liked the movie,I hope everyone watches it!… Expand
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10
OzguzeynepNov 20, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Dead poets society is a great film about friendship and how important to have free opinions. Its a great example of how hard it can be being a independent teacher in a traditional school. And also a great example of how being oppressive to your children can effect them.… Expand
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10
BestewhoNov 20, 2022
An absolute masterpiece and a wonderful story. I have watched this movie couple of times and everytime it took my breath away. Robin Williams did a great job with his character as always also Ethan Hawke was amazing alongside Robert SeanAn absolute masterpiece and a wonderful story. I have watched this movie couple of times and everytime it took my breath away. Robin Williams did a great job with his character as always also Ethan Hawke was amazing alongside Robert Sean Leonard. I reccomend you to watch it.… Expand
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3
doqaaNov 26, 2022
i liked the message they gave throught the movie.
Not really my type of movie to watch.
I didn't like the ending to be honest.
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9
Craftnight405Aug 7, 2023
In der Privatschule für Jungen Welton Academy kommt ein neuer Englischlehrer namens John Keating (Robin Williams). Dieser war früher selbst auf der Schule und Mitglied des Clubs: Der Club der toten Dichter. In der traditionellen Schule häbtIn der Privatschule für Jungen Welton Academy kommt ein neuer Englischlehrer namens John Keating (Robin Williams). Dieser war früher selbst auf der Schule und Mitglied des Clubs: Der Club der toten Dichter. In der traditionellen Schule häbt er sich heraus und nutzt andere Methoden, um die Schüler zu motivieren, das Leben zu nutzen. In seiner Klasse sind die Jungs Todd, Knox, Charlie, Chris und Dylan, welche verschiedensten Wünsche und Hürden haben.

Robin Williams spielt, wie in fast allen seinen Rollen, einen sympathischen Charakter mit viel Witz. Er hat zwar nicht viel Screentime, aber er hat eine gewisse Aura, die einen motiviert. Der Film zeigt verschiedenste Geschichten von den Jungs, die alle ihre Träume nicht ausleben können, wegen der strengen Lehrer und Eltern. Es kommen zwar viele Gedichte in dem Film vor, diese zeigen verschiedenste Emotionen und Gefühle von den Charakteren. Innerhalb des Clubs werden die Schüler mutiger und wollen ihre Träume erfüllen. Der Film wird nicht langweilig und kann einen stark inspirieren, vor allem zu der Zeit, wo der Film erschienen ist. Die Schule ist alt und sieht sehr schön aus und die Uniformen sehen ebenfalls gut aus. Am Ende wird der Film sehr emotional, was mit einer der bekanntesten, schönsten und emotionalsten Szene endet.

Der Club der toten Dichter ist ein Film für Jugendlich und Erwachsene, die nicht wissen, was sie machen wollen oder ihre Wünsche nicht erfüllen können. Außerdem zeigt er, dass mit Zusammenhalt, man vieles erreichen kann.

9/10… Expand
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