By Sarah Oliveira
Few films capture the bittersweet transition from adolescence to adulthood as powerfully as Dead Poet’s Society. In a world where youthful aspiration meets the painful realities of life, and young people are constantly pressured to follow rigid expectations, the film delivers a timeless and crucial message: seize the day, no matter the cost. The widely known classic has been enjoyed for over 30 years and is truly deserving of its success. Most notably recognized as the perfect fall movie, and for its accurate portrayal of boyhood, the film follows a heartwarming narrative of an all-boys preparatory school in the early 1960s. The compelling story effectively critiques the conformity of society, emphasizing the power of embracing one’s voice and “seizing the day,” making it evident that life is fleeting, and fulfilment is found from within.
Released in 1989 and directed by Peter Weir, the cinematic masterpiece stars Robin Williams, Ethan Hawke, and Robert Sean, with each actor delivering a meaningful and phenomenal performance. Robin Williams, playing John Keating, an English teacher, resembles a father figure who strives to inspire his students by means of poetry and literature. Robert and Ethan play schoolboys; Neil Perry and Todd Anderson, who are roommates and grapple with the demanding expectations their parents set forth.
In the rigid halls of the academy, Keating encourages his students to embrace the beauty of poetry and find their own truth by embracing “carpe diem” (seize the day). Through his unorthodox teaching methods, he emphasizes the importance of self-expression and living in the moment. One of Keating’s most impactful moments is when he instructs the boys to stand up on their desks and view the world from a different perspective. Doing this, he instills the belief that life should be defined by the choices we make today rather than by societal expectations and fears of the future.
Keating’s methods are seen as eccentric to the rest of the faculty, who remain bound by the “four pillars” of Welton: tradition, honor, discipline, and excellence. In response to their judgements, Keating quotes himself, “But only in their dreams can men be truly free. Twas always thus, and always thus will be,” further reinforcing his philosophy, “carpe diem,” the reoccurring motif throughout the film (Weir). His willingness to challenge authority and risk his job despite others’ criticisms reveals his dedication to seizing the day, as he values the boys’ growth and understanding of life over his own security.
While Keating’s ideas and teaching methods greatly shape his students’ lives, it is Robin Williams’ extraordinary performance that truly embodies the spirit of this remarkable character. Williams’ portrayal of Mr. Keating is nothing short of mesmerizing; from subtle shifts between a playful mentor to a serious philosopher, he lends the character an authenticity that makes Keating’s impact on the students and audience even greater. It often feels as though Williams is not merely acting, but genuinely embodying a version of himself and without his exceptional performance, the emotional depth of the movie would be undoubtedly dull and significantly less striking.
Similarly, Robert Sean, as Neil, brings a heartbreaking vulnerability to the role, making his internal struggles even more devastating. Neil’s character is successfully captured by Sean as he possesses a personal innocence that generates intense emotional attachment from viewers. Neil transitions from moments of youthful ambition to inner turmoil, struggling with the weight of expectation that consumes him. As roommates, he and Todd grow fond of each other, and through the influence of Mr. Keating, Todd’s character gradually mirrors Neil’s quest for identity amidst his father’s controlling ideals. Neil embraces his pursuit for acting, while Todd shifts from a timid follower to a young man who learns to embrace his own voice.
These meaningful performances lead to the evocative themes developed, with the idea of “carpe diem” and its profound effect on the lives of Keating’s students, notably impacting Neil’s life the most. Despite his intelligence and good character, Neil is heavily influenced by his domineering father. He yearns to rebel against his father’s expectations and seek the things that he is truly passionate about. Keating serves as an inspiration to Neil as he encourages the boys to “live more urgently and more fervently” because there is only one chance at life, and one must do everything they can to not waste it (Weir). This philosophy leads to his pursuit in acting, where he is later cast in a Shakespeare production against his father’s approval.
The progression in the character development of Neil, Todd, and the other boys is intense, and reveals the change in each of their journeys since they met Mr. Keating. Many of them, afraid of stepping out of line and making one mistake that might upset the school or their parents, yet, deep inside, they yearn to “suck the marrow out of life” (Weir). In turn, Keating introduces them to the Dead Poet’s Society; a secret society that not only forges friendships among the boys but releases them from the shackles that they are bound to at Welton. For better or for worse, the Dead Poet’s Society pushes them to defy the established rules and reject societal norms, each in their own unique way.
In addition, the exceptional soundtrack and intentional dialogue are the very essence of this story, both working together to convey the emotional depth associated with each character. The dialogue is rich, and beautifully written, often filled with poetic references and wholesome comedy from Robin Williams. He is clever in each word choice, inviting viewers to reflect on the deeper meanings of life and complexities of society.
Complementing the pleasant dialogue, musical elements capture the spirit of the narrative and are reminiscent of the 1980s, perfectly blending with the 1960s film setting and the orchestral soundtracks of that time. They give warmth and nostalgia, which resonates with the character’s journeys, and in final scenes like the boys standing on their desks, the music intensifies to evoke a sense of hope and possibility, making it a vital component to this film.
While some critics have crafted ruthless reviews of Dead Poet’s Society, mentioning the lack of structure in the plotline and its cliché appeal, it is crucial that these elements are viewed in the broader context of the film. Roger Ebert, a well-known reviewer, criticizes the film and reflects the unyielding attitude of Welton Academy. By describing it as “a collection of pious platitudes masquerading as a courageous stand,” he displays the narrow-minded beliefs that overlook the film’s beauty and emotional depth, mirroring the school’s failure to recognize the value of self-expression. Ebert’s review reveals a reluctance to embrace the film’s overarching message that seeking individual purpose and seizing the day can be freeing but comes with its consequences.
Though Dead Poet’s Society was released over 30 years ago, its themes of individuality and challenging societal expectations remain relevant today as young people still face pressure to follow paths dictated by others, much like the students in the film. Dead Poet’s Society poses a timeless message that leaves viewers pondering life’s possibilities, and the courage it takes to “seize the day.” Despite the tragic ending that had me sobbing for an hour, it is a must-watch for people of all ages, especially those seeking inspiration and craving to live life to its fullest. It is a film that resonates long after the credits roll, urging viewers to embrace authenticity and find pursuit in their own dreams.
Works Cited
Ebert, Roger. “Dead Poets Society Movie Review (1989).” Roger Ebert, 9 June 1989, www.rogerebert.com/reviews/dead-poets-society-1989. Accessed 16 Oct. 2024.
Weir, Peter, director. Dead Poets Society. Buena Vista Pictures, 1989. Hulu, https://www.hulu.com/watch/58ab534f-7a68-40f8-b703-654d224dc80b. Accessed 12 Oct. 2024.
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