This Peter Weir drama film was released in June of 1989, which shares the seemingly uncomplicated
story of an English teacher who inspires his students with poetry.
Produced on a budget of $16-million, the PG-rated film would score four Oscar nominations, and
$220 million in profit.
In his second nominated performance, Robin Williams is graceful as the kind, patient,
and motivational leader... who instructs his adolescent troops to "make life extraordinary",
and "seize the day."
Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, John Charles, and a dozen other young actors make up the
group of prep school students at the elite Welton Academy, who overcome their hesitations
and begin craving everything life has to offer... by throwing parties, reading sonnets, and
reveling in each other's camaraderie.
Weir even had the young actors all room together during production, to strengthen their on-screen
chemistry.
And it certainly worked, their charm and eagerness make their characters easy, and believable
to root for.
Meanwhile, Norman Lloyd and Kurtwood Smith play older gentlemen, who despite being reasonable
in their own actions, only serve as an obstacle for the growing desires of the teens.
A confrontational scene between Leonard and Smith, as father and son, is particularly
powerful, bordering on difficult-to-watch a times.
It's easy to empathize with the dutiful child, afraid to disappoint a loving father who doesn't
understand what his son really wants.
It goes without saying that both individuals give brilliant performances in that scene,
as well.
The unrushed narrative unwinds throughout a single-school year, as we learn more and
more about these interesting and nuanced characters.
Without any showy cinematography, action scenes, or memorable music... the entire 128-minute
picture rests on its writing and characters: and thankfully, the film more than excels
here.
This is light-hearted, but serious look at adolescence, self-discovery, and challenging
authority.
The marvelous script gives us insight into their fictional lives, but what makes the
film stand out is how it allows, and practically asks the audience to reflect on their own
lives.
The qualities these men embody will surely resonate... when you wonder if you're doing
enough to make your own life extraordinary.
A wonderful, moving, and uplifting experience that should be required viewing for all students,
I loved this film when I first saw it in my early twenties... and still do today.
"Dead Poets Society" only gets better with age, and I strongly consider it to be an AWESOME
film.