Dead Poets Society (1989)
Peter Weir's beloved coming-of-age drama follows an electrifying teacher who dares his students to seize the day and think for themselves.
Dead Poets Society - Movie Information
- Original Title: Dead Poets Society
- Release Year: 1989
- Directed by: Peter Weir
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Age Rating (US): PG
- Runtime: 2h 9m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English, Latin
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 2, 1989 (Canada), June 9, 1989 (United States - PG), September 22, 1989 (United Kingdom - PG), June 8, 1989 (Germany - 12), January 17, 1990 (France - TP), July 21, 1989 (Australia - PG), February 28, 1990 (Brazil - 12), February 16, 1990 (Mexico), September 28, 1989 (Italy), November 24, 1989 (Spain - 16), May 19, 1990 (South Korea - 12)
- Alternative Titles: Մեռած Պոետների Հասարակությունը (AM), La Sociedad de los Poetas Muertos (MX), Sociedade dos Poetas Mortos (BR), Спілка Мертвих Поетів (UA), Društvo Mrtvih Pjesnika (BA), La Sociedad de los Poetas Muertos (AR), Общество на Мъртвите Поети (BG), El Club de los Poetas Muertos (ES)
- Production Companies: A Steven Haft Production, Witt/Thomas Productions, Silver Screen Partners IV, Touchstone Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
Dead Poets Society - Plot
At an elite, old-fashioned boarding school in New England, a passionate English teacher inspires his students to rebel against convention and seize the potential of every day, courting the disdain of the stern headmaster.
Dead Poets Society - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see why this film has moved audiences for decades:
He was their inspiration. He made their lives extraordinary.
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Dead Poets Society - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Peter Weir
Main Cast
- Robin Williams
- Robert Sean Leonard
- Ethan Hawke
- Josh Charles
- Gale Hansen
- Dylan Kussman
- Allelon Ruggiero
- James Waterston
- Norman Lloyd
- Kurtwood Smith
Writers
- Tom Schulman
Producers
- Tony Thomas
- Steven Haft
- Paul Junger Witt
Dead Poets Society - FAQs
What is the ending of Dead Poets Society explained?
After Neil Perry's tragic death, the school scapegoats Mr. Keating. In the final scene, Todd Anderson and his classmates stand on their desks declaring 'O Captain, My Captain' in solidarity with Keating as he leaves. The gesture symbolizes the enduring impact of his teaching and the boys' awakened sense of individual courage.
Is Dead Poets Society based on a true story?
The film is partially inspired by real experiences. Screenwriter Tom Schulman drew on his own time at Montgomery Bell Academy in Nashville, Tennessee. While Mr. Keating is a fictional character, the themes of conformity, poetic inspiration, and student rebellion reflect genuine aspects of Schulman's formative school years.
Where can you stream Dead Poets Society?
Dead Poets Society is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Streaming availability may vary by region. Check JustWatch for the most current and comprehensive list of viewing options in your area.
Who are the main actors in Dead Poets Society?
Robin Williams leads the cast as the charismatic English teacher John Keating. He is joined by Robert Sean Leonard as Neil Perry, Ethan Hawke as Todd Anderson, Josh Charles as Knox Overstreet, Gale Hansen as Charlie Dalton, and Kurtwood Smith as the stern Mr. Perry.
What is Dead Poets Society about?
Set at an elite New England boarding school in the 1950s, the film follows unconventional English teacher John Keating, who inspires his students to embrace poetry, independent thought, and the philosophy of 'carpe diem.' His methods ignite a passionate awakening in his students but bring him into conflict with the school's rigid administration.
Did Dead Poets Society win any awards?
Yes. Dead Poets Society won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for Tom Schulman in 1990. The film was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director for Peter Weir, and Best Actor for Robin Williams. It additionally received BAFTA nominations and won a César Award for Best Foreign Film.
What is the age rating for Dead Poets Society?
Dead Poets Society is rated PG in the United States. While the film deals with serious themes including conformity, ambition, and tragedy, its content is considered suitable for general audiences with parental guidance suggested for younger viewers. International ratings vary, with a 12 certificate in Germany and a 16 rating in Spain.
How long is Dead Poets Society?
Dead Poets Society has a runtime of 2 hours and 9 minutes (129 minutes). Directed by Peter Weir, the film uses its running time to carefully develop the relationships between Mr. Keating and his students, building emotional depth before its powerful and memorable conclusion.
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