Liber-Rate

“Carpe Diem: Seize the Day” – ‘Dead Poets’ Society’, by Peter Weir, is a drama film set in 1959, at the esteemed ‘Welton Academy’, where English teacher Mr Keating inspires students to make the most out of every day. However, despite Mr Keating’s emphasis on the importance of individualism and authenticity, his lessons are not enough to prevent a tragedy, one caused by the submissive and inherently conformist nature of some of his students.

‘Dead Poets’ Society’ is a bittersweet film, evoking a sorrowful empathy for Neil, where the actors’ depictions of each character are exceptional, ultimately creating an interesting, emotionally moving storyline. Robin Williams’ powerful portrayal of Mr Keating beautifully illustrates Keating’s passion for teaching, as well as his charisma and friendly personality. Ethan Hawke, playing Todd Anderson, portrays Todd’s anxiety effectively, which, when paired with his emotional neglect, makes Todd a highly relatable character. Robert Sean Leonard, portraying Neil Perry, skillfully conveys the intricate brilliance of his character, revealing the complexity of his personal and social struggles. Neil’s depth lies in the contrast between how others rely on him and his own sense of emotional isolation—despite being trusted by everyone, he feels he has no one to turn to. In his penultimate scene, Neil gazes out the window while wearing his thorn wreath, symbolizing his final glimpse into the futures he could have embraced—both as a doctor and as an actor—ending the scene with tragic irony.

The film’s most compelling yet often overlooked feature is its realism. In the final scene, not every student stands to acknowledge Mr Keating with ‘O Captain My Captain’. Not everyone has the courage to stand out of the comfort of conformity, even when others are. Until Neil’s death, the members of the Dead Poets’ Society were not truly moved by Mr Keating’s message of ‘Carpe Diem.’ It was Neil’s death that catalyzed the realization of the weight of his teachings, because everyone finally understood what it meant to live in conformity. Neil committed suicide because he could not stand up to his father. He could not bring himself to be his true self against Mr Perry’s wishes, preferring to end his life. This underappreciated feature of the scene, reveals a harsh truth to the film, and goes beyond the cliché of every ‘happily ever after’ ending, offering a sober commentary on the consequences of repression.