Set in 1959 at a all boys private school called Welton Academy, Robin Williams is Mr. Keating, a new teacher. One of his students is a teenaged Ethan Hawke (Tommy).
Mr. Keating quickly shows himself to be an out-of-the-box instructor, who becomes well-followed by the boys who follow in his footsteps by forming the Dead Poets Society which has a Carpe Diem/Seize the Day mentality. It encourages the boys to do things like ask girls out, stay out late, and act in school plays.
Needless to say this behavior is not well received by the administration and parents and it sets up a three way conflict between them and the boys.
Larger themes which have not stood the test of time are: the conformity of the aspiring Ivy League, the all-white school, the subservient women's roles, hinged by the threat of male on female violence.
Good cinematography and an interesting plot. 1990 Oscar winner for Best Original Screenplay If you can read this, thank a teacher!
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