Dead Poets Society (1989)

Dead Poets Society (1989) — Set at a strict New England boys’ boarding school in 1959, this moving coming-of-age drama follows an unorthodox English teacher, John Keating, who uses poetry and provocative exercises to awaken his students’ sense of self and possibility. Through Keating’s encouragement, shy Todd Anderson and charismatic Neil Perry — along with their classmates — begin to challenge the school’s rigid expectations and explore who they truly want to become. Watching the film, you’ll experience a blend of inspiration and tension: warm, uplifting classroom scenes and rousing speeches (“seize the day”) sit alongside mounting pressure from family, tradition, and authority. The story builds from quiet humor and camaraderie into emotionally intense moments as the boys’ new confidence collides with the world that seeks to control them. Expect powerful performances (including Robin Williams as Keating), lyrical use of poetry, and a soundtrack and cinematography that emphasize both the beauty of youthful rebellion and the costs of nonconformity. The result is an affecting, thought-provoking film that will leave you encouraged to question the status quo, moved by the characters’ bonds, and reflecting on the balance between duty and individuality.

Actors: Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke

Director: Peter Weir

Runtime: 128 min

Genres: Comedy, Drama

7.6 /10 79 /100 8.1 /10 7.9 /10