Dead Poets Society (1989) Review in 2025
A group of high school students in the 1950s form a poetry club under the guidance of their unorthodox English teacher, Mr. Keating, who inspires them to think differently and find their own voice.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but parental discretion is advised due to some mature themes and language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves drama, biographical films, or is looking for a story that will inspire and motivate them to pursue their passions.
Spoiler Alert!
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The story revolves around a group of students, including Todd Anderson, Charlie Dalton, and Neil Perry, who are struggling to find their place in the world. Mr. Keating's unconventional teaching methods and his emphasis on individuality and free thinking inspire them to take risks and challenge the status quo. However, their newfound confidence and creativity are met with resistance from their conservative parents and the school administration, leading to a tragic confrontation that changes the lives of the students forever.
Review Details
story9.50/10
The story is engaging, well-structured, and emotionally resonant, exploring themes of individuality, creativity, and the importance of following one's dreams.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with a talented cast delivering memorable performances that bring the characters to life and make the story feel authentic and engaging.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed, complex, and relatable, with Robin Williams delivering a standout performance as the charismatic and unconventional Mr. Keating.
direction9.50/10
The direction is masterful, with Peter Weir expertly balancing tone, pacing, and emotional depth to create a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is beautiful, capturing the lush colors and textures of the 1950s setting and adding to the overall sense of nostalgia and wonder.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's themes of individuality, creativity, and the importance of following one's dreams are timeless and universal, making it a classic that will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.
Cons
The movie's portrayal of the 1950s setting and the characters' experiences may feel somewhat dated or even clichéd to some viewers, but this is a minor quibble in an otherwise excellent film.
Notable Quotes
"Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys."
"Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light."
"We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race. And the human race is filled with passion. Medicine, law, business, engineering - these are noble pursuits and necessary to the world. But poetry, beauty, romance, love - these are what we stay alive for."
"You're not your job. You're not how much money you have in the bank. You're not the car you drive. You're not the contents of your wallet. You're not your fucking khakis. You are not this or that. You are you. And you are enough."
