Dead Poets Society

What is the movie about?

Dead Poets Society (1989) is a coming-of-age film directed by Peter Weir, starring Robin Williams as John Keating, an unorthodox English teacher. Set at the conservative Welton Academy boarding school in the 1950s, the story follows Keating as he encourages his students to think critically, pursue their passions, and live life to the fullest, with his famous motto: “Carpe Diem” (Seize the Day).

As the story unfolds, the students rediscover the Dead Poets Society, a secret club where they read poetry and share their ideas and dreams. The film delves into themes like individuality and the power of art and literature. While it offers a moving tale of self-discovery, it also presents tragic moments that encourage viewers to reflect on the importance of personal freedom and the consequences of social pressure.

TW: suicide

Some interesting facts

The title of the film refers to the real Dead Poets Society, a group of young poets including Walt Whitman, whose poem O Captain! My Captain! plays a central role in the movie. Moreover, many of the works quoted in the film, such as those by Whitman, Henry David Thoreau, Byron, Keats, and Shelley, are classics that align with the themes of freedom and individuality.

The phrase “Carpe Diem”, gained worldwide recognition through the film and became a popular life philosophy. Notably, many of the scenes where Robin Williams, as John Keating, delivers his lessons were improvised. In particular, his humorous impressions and spontaneous remarks during the lessons were created on the spot.

In addition, Ethan Hawke, who played the role of the introverted Todd Anderson, had his breakthrough with this film. Writer Tom Schulman partially based the story on his own experiences at a boys’ school. The film won the 1990 Oscar for ‘Best Original Screenplay’ and received several other awards, including a BAFTA, César, and NME Award.

Coincidentally, in the same year the film was released, a novel based on the screenplay, written by Nancy H. Kleinbaum, was also published. Initially, Schulman’s script was rejected by several studios until Disney decided to support the project through their Touchstone Pictures label. However, in some countries, the film was censored due to its sensitive themes of suicide and rebellion against authority. Nevertheless, Dead Poets Society became a global symbol of self-expression and personal freedom.

Why should you watch the movie?

I think Dead Poets Society is a fantastic film, and I highly recommend it for teens aged 13 and up, with a trigger warning for suicide. With its inspiring message, the film’s motto “Carpe Diem” encourages viewers to pursue their dreams and embrace change. Moreover, the visual style, along with symbolic elements like nature imagery and iconic student scenes, further strengthens this message. In addition, powerful performances from all the actors contribute significantly to the film’s impact.

The film follows the personal growth of various students, highlighting their struggles with the expectations of parents, school, and society. It’s especially moving to see how they learn to discover themselves and stand up for their ideas. The themes of self-expression and rejecting traditional norms are relevant to every generation—whether it’s younger viewers seeking their own identity or older audiences reflecting on their past experiences. As a result, with its emotional impact, the film prompts you to think about your own life choices and the importance of personal freedom.

After watching the movie, I spent a good while reflecting on my life, overwhelmed by its emotional depth—clearly, the actors did an incredible job.

In short, Dead Poets Society is more than just a film, it’s an experience that encourages introspection and may even inspire you to be bolder in following your own path.

Memorable quotes from the film

Here are some quotes that provide insight into the characters and emphasize the themes of self-expression, freedom, and the power of art. They mark key moments in the students’ journey. Now it’s up to you to watch the film and experience it in full:

• “Carpe Diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.” (John Keating)
• “No matter what anybody tells you, words and ideas can change the world.” (John Keating)
• “We don’t read and write poetry because it’s cute. We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race.” (John Keating)
• “I stand upon my desk to remind myself that we must constantly look at things in a different way.” (John Keating)
• “For the first time in my whole life, I know what I want to do! And for the first time, I’m gonna do it!” (Neil Perry)
• “The powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse. What will your verse be?” (John Keating)
• “He’s in his own world. But it’s a good world.” (Charlie Dalton)
• “We’re not laughing at you, we’re laughing near you.” (John Keating)
• “You are a poet. You have to speak it out loud.” (Charlie Dalton)
• “Seize the day. Because believe it or not, each and every one of us in this room is one day going to die.” (Charlie Dalton)
• “O Captain! My Captain!” (The students of Keating)