Carpe diem. How many times have we heard this expression, not being fully aware of its meaning?
The 1989 film Dead Poets Society captures the true sense of "seizing the day". Personally, it is one of the most impactful films I've ever watched. I discovered it when I was 15, at a moment when I didn't know I needed it.
The plot
Dead Poets Society tells the story of an English teacher, Mr. Keating, who shows the boys in Welton Academy how to think for themselves, be free, find their own passion and, consequently, he inspires each student to become the person they want to be.
Many of the situations these characters go through are so real that it's impossible not to relate to them in some way. You might identify with the energetic and passionate Neil Perry, who finds himself having to choose between living up to his father's expectations or doing what really makes him happy, which is acting in plays.
Or, on the other hand, Todd Anderson's story might appeal to you. He's an introvert, shy and caring boy who gains confidence throughout the film and learns to stand up for his beliefs. He's also a talented writer who needs to become aware of his potential.
Then, there's Knox Overstreet, the hopeless romantic. And Charlie Dalton, the rebel who likes getting into trouble.
Mr. Keating manages to touch and inspire most of these characters, changing their views of life and making them believe in themselves. By having an impact on these people, he also gets to move the viewers of the film.
Who is this film for?
If you're into literature and theater, this film is a must watch. It mentions authors such as Thoreau, Shakespeare and Walt Whitman, as well as some of their best works.
However, every teenager should give Dead Poets Society a try. At the end of the day, no matter our academic preferences or hobbies, we all feel the same: we're at a point in our lives where we are not sure what we really want, we're too focused on doing well at school and we have insecurities about our life, friends, future… Everything gets so overwhelming and stressful that sometimes, we just need to be told that we should follow our dreams without being afraid of being judged; it's okay to be ourselves and to do whatever makes us happy. This is what Dead Poets Society will make you feel.
No matter what anybody tells you, words and ideas can change the world.
Some inspiring quotes:
“We don’t read and write poetry because it’s cute. We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race, and the human race is filled with passion. And medicine, law, business, engineering, these are noble pursuits and necessary to sustain life. But poetry, beauty, romance, love; these are what we stay alive for.”
“You must strive to find your own voice. Because the longer you wait to begin, the less likely you are to find it at all.”
“(Seize the day) Because we are food for worms, lads. Because, believe it or not, each and every one of us in this room is one day going to stop breathing, turn cold and die.”
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