Dead Poets Society (1989)

The Dead Poets society in my opinion is an observation and critique on conformity. The film takes place in a conservative prestigious all boys boarding school, which completely juxtaposes the main theme of the film , self expression. This provides an adequate setting in order to explore this theme as the characters in the film are pressured into following the rules and follow in the same narrow mindset as their superiors. The arrival of the new english teacher , John Keating (Robin Williams), and his unorthodox and eccentric teaching methods inspire the group of boys to open there minds and think for themselves for a change.

The film shows Robin Williams deviate from his almost typecast role of a comedian into a more serious and insightful character. However his unique charm and comedic persona still shine through in some aspects of the character. Williams was nominated for best actor in the year of its release and rightfully so as his portrayal of Keating was raw , emotional and poignant and raised many questions about life itself, such as the motif of carpe diem. This latin phrase meaning "seize the day" was present throughout the film and decribes what I believe is the films overarching message , to use life to its advantages and do what makes yourself happy.

A particular scene which caught my attention was when the class of boys were asked to write there own poem and perform it to the class. When asked to do so , Knox (Ethan Hawke) , admitted to not completing the task and Keating teases him and makes him perform a "yelp" to the rest of the class to help release his inner insecurities. After doing so and feeling relieved Keating urges him to speak what on his mind about a painting hanging on the wall. This was a beautifully crafted scene as the camera work followed the actors around in a spinning motion which conveys the thoughts and confusion going on in Knox's head and when it stops and returns to a medium shot displays the characters clarity and his realisation that he is capable of writing poetry. I particularly enjoyed this as I felt involved in the events and understood the characters emotions as it built up suspense and tension until the camera became stationary showing Knox release the inner poet inside him.

Although I did enjoy this film I did find it somewhat slow and almost boring in the first half of it . This may be due to the characters not being developed enough as I felt some were quite two dimensional and could have been potentially been more interesting. It also felt like not much really happens as the pacing is slow and I feel as not enough drama occurred for it to be classed in the drama genre. However this may be due to me coming from a modern day perspective and not relating to the characters as they are from a different generation.

The ending to the film was brilliant , the suspense leading up to Neil's decision was heartbreaking and moving as it displays exactly what pressures to abide to a certain lifestyle can lead too when you don't pursue what makes you happy. The idea of rebellion is present thoughout the ending as the boys ultimately give in to the schools strong moral code despite all knowing the truth. However the boys mark of respect to Keating which the line "O captain O captain" inspires us to respect our individuality and our right to freely express ourselves.

The film reminds me of another coming of age drama called "The History Boys" which is set in a similar setting in Britain in the 80's which has a similar message about thinking for yourself and to inspire others. I enjoyed this film more on a storytelling basis as there was more substance to the film compared to Dead Poets society. Despite this, on a visual and aesthetic level I preferred The Dead poets society as scenes such as the cinematography denoted was better and was extremely pleasing to the eye.

Overall I would definitely recommend this film but would suggest to not give up half way through as the pacing is quite slowing and it isn't as engaging to the audience in the first hour or so. The message to the film is still relevant today and can be appreciated by this generation as many people feel restricted by guidelines and parent pressures and urges. "The marrow out of life' is a particularly inspire piece of dialogue as it emulates appreciation of life itself and not letting it go to waste whatever may get in your way.