dead poets society movie review

Dead Poets Society

“Dead Poets Society” is a collection of pious platitudes masquerading as a courageous stand in favor of something: doing your own thing, I think. It’s about an inspirational, unconventional English teacher and his students at “the best prep school in America” and how he challenges them to question conventional views by such techniques as standing on their desks. It is, of course, inevitable that the brilliant teacher will eventually be fired from the school, and when his students stood on their desks to protest his dismissal, I was so moved, I wanted to throw up.

Peter Weir’s film makes much noise about poetry, and there are brief quotations from Tennyson, Herrick, Whitman and even Vachel Lindsay, as well as a brave excursion into prose that takes us as far as Thoreau’s Walden. None of these writers are studied, however, in a spirit that would lend respect to their language; they’re simply plundered for slogans to exort the students toward more personal freedom. At the end of a great teacher’s course in poetry, the students would love poetry; at the end of this teacher’s semester, all they really love is the teacher.

The movie stars Robin Williams as the mercurial John Keating, teacher of English at the exclusive Welton Academy in Vermont. The performance is a delicate balancing act between restraint and schtick.

For much of the time, Williams does a good job of playing an intelligent, quick-witted, well-read young man. But then there are scenes in which his stage persona punctures the character – as when he does impressions of Marlon Brando and John Wayne doing Shakespeare.

There is also a curious lack of depth to his character compared with such other great movie teachers as Miss Jean Brodie and Professor Kingsfield. Keating is more of a plot device than a human being.

The story is also old stuff, recycled out of the novel and movie “ A Separate Peace ” and other stories in which the good die young and the old simmer in their neurotic and hateful repressions. The key conflict in the movie is between Neil ( Robert Sean Leonard ), a student who dreams of being an actor, and his father ( Kurtwood Smith ), who orders his son to become a doctor and forbids him to go onstage. The father is a strict, unyielding taskmaster, and the son, lacking the will to defy him, kills himself. His death would have had a greater impact for me if it had seemed like a spontaneous human cry of despair, rather than like a meticulously written and photographed set piece.

Other elements in the movie also seem to have been chosen for their place in the artificial jigsaw puzzle. A teenage romance between one of the Welton students and a local girl is given so little screen time, so arbitrarily, that it seems like a distraction. And I squirmed through the meetings of the “Dead Poets Society,” a self-consciously bohemian group of students who hold secret meetings in the dead of night in a cave near the campus.

The society was founded by Keating when he was an undergraduate, but in its reincarnate form it never generates any sense of mystery, rebellion or daring. The society’s meetings have been badly written and are dramatically shapeless, featuring a dance line to Lindsay’s “The Congo” and various attempts to impress girls with random lines of poetry. The movie is set in 1959, but none of these would-be bohemians have heard of Kerouac, Ginsberg or indeed of the beatnik movement.

One scene in particular indicates the distance between the movie’s manipulative instincts and what it claims to be about. When Keating is being railroaded by the school administration (which makes him the scapegoat for his student’s suicide), one of the students acts as a fink and tells the old fogies what they want to hear. Later, confronted by his peers, he makes a hateful speech of which not one word is plausible except as an awkward attempt to supply him with a villain’s dialogue. Then one of the other boys hits him in the jaw, to great applause from the audience. The whole scene is utterly false and seems to exist only so that the violence can resolve a situation that the screenplay is otherwise unwilling to handle.

“Dead Poets Society” is not the worst of the countless recent movies about good kids and hidebound, authoritatian older people. It may, however, be the most shameless in its attempt to pander to an adolescent audience. The movie pays lip service to qualities and values that, on the evidence of the screenplay itself, it is cheerfully willing to abandon. If you are going to evoke Henry David Thoreau as the patron saint of your movie, then you had better make a movie he would have admired. Here is one of my favorite sentences from Thoreau’s Walden, which I recommend for serious study by the authors of this film: ” . . . instead of studying how to make it worth men’s while to buy my baskets, I studied rather how to avoid the necessity of selling them.” Think about it.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert was the film critic of the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished criticism.

• Josh Charles as Knox Overstreet
• Dylan Kussman as Richard Cameron
• Robert Sean Leonard as Neil Perry
• Robin Williams as John Keating
• Gale Hansen as Charlie Dalton
• Ethan Hawke as Todd Anderson

Photography by

• Maurice Jarre

Produced by

• Paul Junger Witt
• Steven Haft
• Tony Thomas

Directed by

• Tom Schulman
• William Anderson

Leave a comment

Now playing.

The Fire Inside

Sonic the Hedgehog 3

The Six Triple Eight

The Count of Monte Cristo

The Room Next Door

The Brutalist

Mufasa: The Lion King

September 5

The Last Showgirl

The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim

Latest articles.

Process the Environment: Rachel Morrison on “The Fire Inside”

It’s Time to Give a FECK: Elevating Humanity through Forgiveness, Empathy, Compassion and Kindness (book by Chaz Ebert, with Foreword by Tamron Hall)

The Great Performances of 2024, Part Two

The Great Performances of 2024, Part One

The best movie reviews, in your inbox.

• For Parents
• For Educators
• Our Work and Impact

Or browse by category:

• Movie Reviews
• Best Movie Lists
• Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

• Best TV Lists
• Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
• Common Sense Selections for TV
• Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

• Book Reviews
• Best Book Lists
• Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

• App Reviews
• Best App Lists
• Game Reviews
• Best Game Lists
• Common Sense Selections for Games
• Video Reviews of Games
• Podcast Reviews
• Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

• Big Kids (7-9)
• Tweens (10-12)
• Teens (13-15)
• Digital Parenting Anxiety
• First Phones
• Social Media
• Parental Controls
• AI Companions
• Generative AI

Parents' Ultimate Guide to First Phones (2024)

• All Parents' Ultimate Guides
• Family Tech Planners
• Digital Skills
• Quiz: How social media savvy is your child?
• All Articles
• Latino Culture
• Black Voices
• Asian Stories
• Native Narratives
• LGBTQ+ Pride
• Jewish Experiences
• Best of Diverse Representation List

Multicultural Books

YouTube Channels with Diverse Representations

Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories

Parents' guide to, dead poets society.

• Common Sense Says
• Parents Say 21 Reviews
• Kids Say 68 Reviews

Common Sense Media Review

By Randy White , based on child development research. How do we rate?

Inspiring, intense story of a teacher and his students.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Dead Poets Society has very uplifting messages especially for teens about seizing the day and embracing poetry as a way toward thinking for yourself and positive self-expression. But it also deals with the suicide of one of the main characters (the gunshot isn't shown, but the…

Why Age 13+?

Period smoking -- lots of it. Both pipes and cigarettes smoked by adults and snu

Kids call Welton school "Hell-ton" frequently. "S--t" is sai

One of the boys commits suicide off-screen via gun shot; parents are shown after

One of the teens shows a (somewhat obscured) Playboy centerfold, plus a few joke

Sunmaid Raisins make a cameo.

Any Positive Content?

Lots of nuggets of wisdom mostly spoken by Professor Keating: Think for yourselv

Almost goes without saying that kids pushed like crazy to succeed will rebel. Th

Parents need to know that Dead Poets Society has very uplifting messages especially for teens about seizing the day and embracing poetry as a way toward thinking for yourself and positive self-expression. But it also deals with the suicide of one of the main characters (the gunshot isn't shown, but the parents are shown holding their son afterward, hysterical). Everyone smokes a lot (mostly a reflection of the time mixed with teen rebellion) and one main character drinks shots at a high school party.

To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Period smoking -- lots of it. Both pipes and cigarettes smoked by adults and snuck by teens. A high school party includes plenty of drinking -- Knox does whiskey shots with new acquaintances.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Kids call Welton school "Hell-ton" frequently. "S--t" is said about a half dozen times, plus a smattering of "damn," "Goddamnit," and "Jesus."

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Violence & Scariness

One of the boys commits suicide off-screen via gun shot; parents are shown afterward hysterical as they hold him. One boy gets beaten up, his nose bloodied. One character says of his beau,"if I don't have Chris I'm going to kill myself." One student gets paddled by headmaster as punishment.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

One of the teens shows a (somewhat obscured) Playboy centerfold, plus a few jokes about virginity, and teen couples kissing passionately at a party.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Positive messages.

Lots of nuggets of wisdom mostly spoken by Professor Keating: Think for yourselves, savor words and language, "words and language can change the world," and you should constantly look at things in a different way. Major themes include compassion and integrity.

Positive Role Models

Almost goes without saying that kids pushed like crazy to succeed will rebel. The boys here smoke quite a bit and sneak out of the school repeatedly, but they sneak out to read poetry and bond. One boy lies to his seemingly heartless father so he can perform in a play. Professor Keating clearly cares a lot about his students. Authority figures in the school stoop to scapegoating one teacher and pitting students against him in order to keep order after a tragedy.

Where to Watch

Videos and photos.

Parent and Kid Reviews

• Parents Say (21)
• Kids Say (68)

Based on 21 parent reviews

Common themes

What's the story.

In DEAD POETS SOCIETY, the teens attending one of the most prestigious preparatory schools in the country aren't prepared for the new English teacher Mr. Keating ( Robin Williams ). He encourages these future doctors and lawyers with pushy parents to think for themselves and "seize the day!" He also subtly encourages the boys to form the Dead Poets Society. They sneak out at night repeatedly to read poetry and bond over girls they like and the pressures they face. It's all healthy fun until Charlie (Gale Hansen) taunts the school with hints of their activities, leading to a full inquiry. But that's only the start of the trouble Mr. Keating and the Dead Poets Society faces.

Is It Any Good?

Older kids fall hard for this stirring coming-of-age drama; they love the way it challenges them to think for themselves. The story also tugs at their heartstrings. They get to know the boys -- their loves, their goals, and their fears. They root for the characters, wanting them to achieve their dreams (one boy wants to play the sax, another wants to become an actor).

Despite Robin William's fine (if a tad cloying) performance, Dead Poets Society belongs to the boys, and the ensemble cast of young male actors (including Ethan Hawke , Josh Charles , and Robert Sean Leonard ) is up to the task. The movie also has a spell-casting ambiance, especially in the cave scenes.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about how poetry is explained and used in Dead Poets Society . Did this movie inspire you to read more, be more creative, or even "seize the day"?

Which movies inspire you? Why? What about teachers?

Families can also talk about Neil, his oppressive father, and his irreversible decision. What help is out there for those contemplating the same actions? What are the warning signs that someone needs help?

How do the characters in Dead Poets Society demonstrate compassion and integrity ? Why are these important character strengths ?

Movie Details

• In theaters : June 9, 1989
• On DVD or streaming : March 4, 2002
• Cast : Dylan Kussman , Ethan Hawke , Robin Williams
• Director : Peter Weir
• Studio : Touchstone Pictures
• Genre : Drama
• Topics : Friendship , High School
• Character Strengths : Compassion , Integrity
• Run time : 128 minutes
• MPAA rating : PG
• MPAA explanation : emotional intensity
• Last updated : December 12, 2024

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

What to watch next.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Scent of a Woman

School Ties

Best high school movies, drama movies that tug at the heartstrings, related topics.

• High School

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

• Cast & crew

User reviews

Dead Poets Society

The 9/10 movie i'll never watch again..

• Jun 16, 2020

Thank You Captain

• Aug 11, 2014

Anti-conformity at its most inspiring.

A powerful antidote to conformism.

• Aug 21, 2001

Seize the Day- One of the Greatest Movies Ever!

• Nov 16, 2008

Carpe Diem, because the days don't stand still

• blissfulmitch
• Feb 3, 2005

Make Your Lives Extraordinary

• connie-baldini-427-561037

A terrific film

• Jul 16, 2000

Wonderful look at loss of innocence

• Mar 22, 2022
• Jan 19, 2003

"Sucking all the marrow out of life doesn't mean choking on the bone."

• Dec 29, 2007

A masterful tribute to teaching at its best

• Mar 2, 2006

A hymn to life

• Aug 29, 2007

One of the worst films ever made...

• Jun 14, 2000

Poetry on the screen

• Mar 27, 2000

Includes a short inspired poem. Your verse.

• BluebirdSeventeen
• Aug 23, 2014

Deserving 10/10

• anthonydapiii
• May 8, 2020

this movie is the greatest movie, with excellent cinematic techniques.

• Mar 18, 2001

A fantastic representation of belief and individualism

• tats2duhmax
• Dec 30, 2004

A Story of Inspiration

• Apr 10, 2015

Pure excellence...

• natalia1818

Good film damaged by melodrama/heavy-handedness

• Hancock_the_Superb
• Mar 2, 2007

Words and ideas can change the world

• BlueRoseNya
• Sep 14, 2014

Teach them the passion of learning,not the learning of passion ...

• ElMaruecan82
• Oct 24, 2011

Poetic injustice

• Mar 6, 2004

More from this title

More to explore, recently viewed.

The Communicator

• The Communicator will not be posting during winter break December 23 to January 5.

“Dead Poet’s Society” Review

“Dead Poets Society” depicts fall beautifully while also displaying boyhood accurately. After finishing the film, I remember sobbing in my bathroom like a baby because of how much this film meant to me. “Dead Poets Society” is a masterpiece that has been held up for more than 30 years– a film that truly deserves its success. 

“Dead Poets Society” is a wonderful, layered film that was released in 1989. The cast includes Robin Williams, Ethan Hawke, and Robert Sean, all three cast members producing in-depth and admirable performances. Williams’ character is perceived as a father figure, while Hawke’s and Sean’s characters are teenage boys who are struggling in their school life. 

The film takes place in 1959, at Weldon Academy, a highly conventional New England boys’ prep school. Parents hope their children will aspire to Weldon’s values, despite the fact they are mentioned in a sarcastic manner. Weldon becomes home to the boys, where they create many memories. 

The film begins as John Keating, Robin Williams, returns to the school where he once was a star student. Only this time, he returns as an English teacher and decides to devote his time at Weldon to broadening his student’s minds with the use of poetry and literature. He’s warm, passionate, kind, and thoughtful, creating a healthy atmosphere for the boys and a safe space with his ideas and mentality. 

Meanwhile, Todd Anderson, Ethan Hawke, has been transferred to the same school where his well-liked, elder brother was once valedictorian. He’s quiet and reserved, failing to fill the shoes of his older brother. Anderson enjoys poetry, yet often sees his work to be not good enough. Throughout the film, Anderson experiences a layered plot development. Hawke’s performance is soul-crushing and perfectly crafted. 

Despite being extremely intelligent and well-liked, Neil Perry, Anderson’s roommate, is heavily influenced by his domineering father. Perry yearns to rebel against his family and when meeting John Keating, he sees a model of what rebellion should look like. From this rebellion, he decides to become an actor and in turn, is casted in a Shakespeare production. 

Both students fall under the influence of Keating’s way of life and, eventually, are introduced to the Dead Poets Society. The society pushes students to challenge the established quo and to reject societal norms. The film follows the transformations characters go through, for the better or worse, each in their own unique way. 

“Dead Poets Society” is an extremely clever movie that is compelling to watch and leaves you thinking long after. It’s a must-see film for all ages, but especially for young adults who despise English. I felt this movie did an incredible job of encapsulating the teenage experience and showing growth among the characters. 

The film holds a deeper meaning to many enjoyers considering Robin Williams’ suicide in 2014 and the connections to how this film tackles the heavy topic of suicide and its weighty effect on those struggling. 

The storyline is captivating, the characters are endearing, the concepts are profound, and the cinematography is delightful. In the end, this movie shatters you, yet I remain thankful for what it made me feel. 

Comments (0)

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

'Dead Poets Society' Review: Robin Williams' Timeless Lessons Still Hit Home

• Dead Poets Society conveys the message of individuality through the unconventional teaching methods of John Keating, played with nuance and heart by Robin Williams.
• Although the film spends more time on the students, Robin Williams' charming, personable portrayal of Keating is what binds the film together.
• Despite some flaws, including Knox's uncomfortable pursuit of Chris, Dead Poets Society remains a must-watch classic with a timeless message.

Taylor Swift has gotten the public’s attention yet again with the release of her new lyrically complex album, The Tortured Poets Department — not to be confused with the classic film Dead Poets Society . Though the Robin Williams film may not be one of the many things Swift references directly , the similarity in names creates a connection that is cleverly accentuated by two of the film’s actors, Ethan Hawke and Josh Charles , appearing in the singer’s music video for “Fortnight.” Poetry is the biggest commonality between the two pieces of pop culture, and whether you prefer your poets dead or tortured, both offer provoking thoughts and emotional stories. Dead Poets Society is a classic for a reason, as it conveys a message about individuality and independent thought. Although it is more than 30 years old, the lesson is as relevant as ever.

Dead Poets Society takes place at the boarding school Welton Academy , where John Keating (Williams), the former rabble-rousing student, returns to the school as the new English teacher, preaching free thought to the students of the rigid school. His unusual lessons create an interest in poetry among the students, causing the promising senior, Neil Perry ( Robert Sean Leonard ), to revive Keating’s old illicit club, the Dead Poets Society, with his friends Todd Anderson (Hawke) , Knox Overstreet (Charles), Charlie Dalton ( Gale Hansen ), Richard Cameron ( Dylan Kussman ), Steven Meeks ( Allelon Ruggiero ), and Gerard Pitts ( James Waterston ). These students experience a journey of self-discovery as they adhere to the tenets of the Society and fall in love, defy the school, chase their passions, and face their fears.

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Dead Poets Society

Maverick teacher John Keating returns in 1959 to the prestigious New England boys' boarding school where he was once a star student, using poetry to embolden his pupils to new heights of self-expression. 

'Dead Poets Society' Shows Robin Williams in His Element

It’s difficult not to love Robin Williams in Dead Poets Society (or in general). Though he’s played many memorable characters throughout his career, Keating is a quintessential example of the actor’s talents. Williams is best known for his comedy , but Dead Poets Society is a drama. However, the genre does nothing to deter the actor, whose quick-talking charm adds humor to the film as Keating gets to know his students and teaches them using his non-traditional methods. While engaging his students, Keating goes wild with impressions and jokes, allowing Williams to shine. Keating’s role is somewhat removed from the main plot as the story follows the students rather than the teacher, yet Williams makes Keating the most memorable part of the film.

Though not a constant presence onscreen, Keating is a major influence on them, requiring the right actor, and that is certainly Williams. Anyone else calling out Todd and pushing him to face his fears in front of the entire class or commenting on what each student’s walk is saying could come across as mean. But Williams’ good nature makes these moments endearing rather than teasing the students. It is Williams’ portrayal of Keating and his earnest passion that effectively conveys the film’s message as the excitable and unique teacher leaves the audience longing to be inspired.

Robin Williams Helped Steven Spielberg Get Through ‘Schindler’s List’

The late comedian made an invaluable contribution to one of the most important films in history.

At the Center of 'Dead Poets Society' Is a Timeless Message

Dead Poet’s Society speaks to the importance of self-expression and individuality. Keating begins by challenging his students to seize the day, the first of many things he teaches them. The audience learns from Keating alongside the students as they take risks in response to Keating’s words. Through the various experiences of the students, the film sends a message of non-conformity that still rings true. The school and Neil’s father ( Kurtwood Smith ) put tremendous pressure on the students, but Keating teaches them to question these voices and listen to themselves above all. With the constant and opinionated voices we hear, this is a lesson worth remembering.

The film puts these lessons to the test through Neil’s storyline, as his drive to be an actor puts him in conflict with his father and ultimately results in his death by suicide. As the school investigates Keating and his teachings, Dead Poets Society questions its own message, seeming to suggest that Neil’s self-expression led to his dissatisfaction with the path he was on. The rest of the Society wavers in their resolve as well, caving to the pressure to blame Keating for the tragedy. Though Keating is forced to leave, the iconic ending shows the students challenging the school’s choice to blame Keating and standing on their desks in farewell, calling back to Keating’s earlier lesson, which they have taken to heart. Though the ending is bittersweet, the message is clear despite the disbelief of the offending parties.

'Dead Poets Society' Has Its Faults but Is Still a Must-Watch

After so many years, Dead Poets Society holds up, though it is not flawless. The film presents a close-knit and supportive friend group , giving the characters a healthy relationship even as they face personal struggles, but with seven characters all introduced at once and, let’s face it, all styled to be a blank slate of the preparatory school system before they are empowered by Keating, it's easy to get confused. This is an easily overlooked flaw as their storylines differentiate them, though it takes time to grasp who is who, creating unnecessary confusion.

The more substantial issue is the content. It’s worth noting that the film’s depiction of suicide can be triggering, especially as the school fights to place blame by investigating Neil’s grieving friends. But this plot is carefully handled. However, Knox’s pursuit of his crush, Chris ( Alexandra Powers ), has aged poorly. The plot leads to a party where Chris falls asleep near Knox, who strokes her hair. This is not explicit, but still creepy, especially as this and Knox’s continued pursuit of her eventually lead to him getting the girl. Despite these concerns, the film is more than worth a watch. With an important message and the always enjoyable inclusion of Robin Williams, the tear-jerking film deserves its classification as a classic.

• Robin Williams is always a joy to watch and the actor makes Keating endearing and hilarious.
• The film sends a timeless message about the importance of independent thought and personal identity.
• With some outdated content, the film includes a few problematic scenes.

Dead Poets Society is available to rent or buy on Prime Video in the U.S.

RENT ON PRIME VIDEO

• Movie Features
• Movie Reviews
• Robin Williams

We sent an email to [email protected]

Didn't you get the email?

By joining, you agree to the Terms and Policies and Privacy Policy and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By continuing, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

Log in or sign up for Rotten Tomatoes

Trouble logging in?

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes and to receive email from the Fandango Media Brands .

By creating an account, you agree to the Privacy Policy and the Terms and Policies , and to receive email from Rotten Tomatoes.

Email not verified

Let's keep in touch.

Sign up for the Rotten Tomatoes newsletter to get weekly updates on:

• Upcoming Movies and TV shows
• Rotten Tomatoes Podcast
• Media News + More

By clicking "Sign Me Up," you are agreeing to receive occasional emails and communications from Fandango Media (Fandango, Vudu, and Rotten Tomatoes) and consenting to Fandango's Privacy Policy and Terms and Policies . Please allow 10 business days for your account to reflect your preferences.

OK, got it!

• About Rotten Tomatoes®
• Login/signup

Movies in theaters

• Opening This Week
• Top Box Office
• Coming Soon to Theaters
• Certified Fresh Movies

Movies at Home

• Fandango at Home
• Prime Video
• Most Popular Streaming Movies
• What to Watch New

Certified fresh picks

• 88% Nosferatu Link to Nosferatu
• 82% Babygirl Link to Babygirl
• 77% A Complete Unknown Link to A Complete Unknown

New TV Tonight

• 88% What If...?: Season 3
• -- Squid Game: Season 2
• 86% Doctor Who: Season 1.1
• -- Call the Midwife: Season 13.1
• -- Queen Woo: Season 1
• -- Maestro in Blue: Season 3
• -- The Flipping El Moussas: Season 2

Most Popular TV on RT

• 93% Black Doves: Season 1
• 70% Dune: Prophecy: Season 1
• 85% One Hundred Years of Solitude: Season 1
• 75% Dexter: Original Sin: Season 1
• 77% No Good Deed: Season 1
• 79% Landman: Season 1
• 90% Star Wars: Skeleton Crew: Season 1
• 86% The Day of the Jackal: Season 1
• 75% The Madness: Season 1
• 68% The Agency: Season 1
• Best TV Shows
• Most Popular TV

Certified fresh pick

• 96% Laid: Season 1 Link to Laid: Season 1
• All-Time Lists
• Binge Guide
• Comics on TV
• Five Favorite Films
• Video Interviews
• Weekend Box Office
• Weekly Ketchup
• What to Watch

30 Most Popular Movies Right Now: What to Watch In Theaters and Streaming

54 Video Game Movies Ranked (with Sonic the Hedgehog 3 )

What to Watch: In Theaters and On Streaming.

Awards Tour

Weekend Box Office: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Speeds to Pre-Holiday Weekend Win

Renewed and Cancelled TV Shows 2024

• Trending on RT
• Awards Season
• Verified Hot
• Renewed and Cancelled TV
• Happy Holidays

Dead Poets Society Reviews

Though it’s marginally overlong, the script is absorbing.

Full Review | Original Score: 8/10 | Sep 16, 2024

It's extremely manipulative but it still works

Full Review | Aug 28, 2024

An achingly beautiful story of high school boys who give up the guards of their masculinity and family expectations to believe in something beautiful and real.

Full Review | Oct 28, 2022

An Oscar-winning drama about self-discovery, free-thinking, and the unfortunate costs that sometimes comes with them.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Aug 20, 2022

This excellent film turns a refrain into an axiom. [Full review in Spanish}

Full Review | Jul 1, 2022

We never are privy to Keatings’s personal life, nor do we quite grasp why such a talented individual is devoted to pedagogy.

Full Review | Original Score: 1/4 | May 11, 2022

I'd originally found it inspiring in 1989 but upon reviewing DPS in 2021, I've come to see it as the poster child (or movie poster) for the insidious, creeping way Hollywood helped sneak communism, Trojan-horse-wise, into America via the movies.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/5 | Sep 9, 2021

Robin Williams may have been famous because of his comedy work but his non-comedy role in Dead Poets Society is one of his best performances.

Full Review | Aug 11, 2021

A refreshing if obvious drama.

Full Review | Original Score: 3/4 | Aug 23, 2017

On the surface Robin Williams appears to be giving his standard performance as Prof. Keating - witty, sincere and lovable. But there's much more here.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/4 | Jun 1, 2016

I can't help but melt underneath this movie: it chisels away the cynic and gets at the sap.

Full Review | Original Score: 3.5/4 | Aug 18, 2014

Dead Poets Society purports to be about the bravery of following one's own path. This is a bright, shining lie, one the film is ballsy enough to tell to your face.

Full Review | Jun 4, 2014

It's not so easy to dismiss Dead Poets Society. For all its faults, it still has as much power as it ever did.

Full Review | Jan 20, 2012

Williams keeps a stiff upper lip, showing a more sedate and sensitive side, and the Oscar-winning screenplay provides a strong backbone.

Full Review | Original Score: 7/10 | Jan 9, 2012

Falters when it goes for too much heart-tugging manipulation.

Full Review | Original Score: B- | Apr 23, 2011

Inspiring, intense story of a teacher and his students.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Jan 2, 2011

Beautifully directed and with an Oscar-winning story.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Aug 24, 2010

Williams, who has comparatively little screen time, has come to act, not to cut comic riffs, and he does so with forceful, ultimately compelling, simplicity.

Full Review | Aug 24, 2010

A film that celebrates the importance of inspiration, albeit in slightly affected fashion.

A bundle of growing pain blues, flamboyant declarations of self, and doomsday faculty foul-ups, and it cooks when delivered in big batches of adolescent passion.

Full Review | Original Score: B- | Aug 26, 2009

• Critic Reviews
• User Reviews
• Cast & Crew