Dead Poets Society
Starring:Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles, Gale Hansen, Dylan Kussman, Allelon Ruggiero, James Waterston, Norman Lloyd, Kurtwood Smith, Carla Belver, Leon Pownall, George Martin (II), Joe Aufiery, Matt Carey, Kevin Cooney, Jane Moore (II), Lara Flynn Boyle, Colin Irving, Alexandra Powers
Director: Peter Weir
Studio: Walt Disney Video
Product Type: DVD
Editorial Review:
Amazon.com essential video
Robin Williams stars as an English teacher who doesn't fit into the conservative prep school where he teaches, but whose charisma and love of poetry inspires several boys to revive a secret society with a bohemian bent. The script is well meaning but a little trite, though director Peter Weir (The Truman Show) adds layers of emotional depth in scenes of conflict between the kids and adults. (A subplot involving one father's terrible pressure on his son--played by Robert Sean Leonard--to drop his interest in theater reaches heartbreaking proportions.) Williams is given plenty of latitude to work in his brand of improvisational humor, though it is all well-woven into his character's style of instruction. --Tom Keogh
Description
Academy Award(R)-winner Robin Williams delivers a brilliant performance in one of Hollywood's most compelling and thought-provoking motion pictures. Williams portrays passionate English professor John Keating who, in an age of crew cuts, sports coats, and cheerless conformity, inspires his students to live life to the fullest, exclaiming ... "Carpe Diem, lads! Seize the day. Make your lives extraordinary!" This charistmatic teacher's emotionally charged challenge is met by his students with irrepressible enthusiasm -- changing their lives forever. Magnificently directed by Peter Weir (THE TRUMAN SHOW), DEAD POETS SOCIETY earned unparalleled praise among audiences and critics alike. Discover for yourself what all the cheering's about!
Average customer rating:
- Absolutely Timeless
- Good for class
- saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews...
- Breathing Life into School
- a great and inspiring film......
|
Dead Poets Society (Special Edition)
Starring: Robin Williams , Robert Sean Leonard , Ethan Hawke , Josh Charles , and Gale Hansen
Director: Peter Weir
Manufacturer: Buena Vista Home Entertainment / Touchstone
ProductGroup: DVD
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- Patch Adams - Collector's Edition
ASIN: B000B8QG1S
Release Date: 2006-01-10 |
Amazon.com essential video
Robin Williams stars as an English teacher who doesn't fit into the conservative prep school where he teaches, but whose charisma and love of poetry inspires several boys to revive a secret society with a bohemian bent. The script is well meaning but a little trite, though director Peter Weir (The Truman Show) adds layers of emotional depth in scenes of conflict between the kids and adults. (A subplot involving one father's terrible pressure on his son--played by Robert Sean Leonard--to drop his interest in theater reaches heartbreaking proportions.) Williams is given plenty of latitude to work in his brand of improvisational humor, though it is all well-woven into his character's style of instruction. --Tom Keogh
Description
In an age defined by crew cuts, sport coats, and cheerless conformity, he not only broke the mold ... he reinvented it. Academy Award(R) winner Robin Williams (Best Supporting Actor, GOOD WILL HUNTING, 1997) delivers an extraordinary performance in one of the most compelling motion pictures of all time. Williams stars as English professor John Keating, a passionate iconoclast who changes his students' lives forever when he challenges them to live life to the fullest and "Carpe Diem" -- seize the day! Keating's unconventional approach meets with irrepressible enthusiasm from his students, but the faculty at staid, exclusive Welton Academy prep school is, to put it mildly, not amused. Featuring a star-marking performance by Ethan Hawke and over three hours of never-before-seen bonus materials, this Special Edition of DEAD POETS SOCIETY will captivate and inspire you again and again.
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely Timeless.......2007-06-16
Some of the more cynical movie critics out there have been quick to slam 'Dead Poets Society', mistaking its beauty and idealism for over-sentimentality. In my view these critics simply need to open themselves up a little more.
The arrival of John Keating in a strict boys boarding school, blows open the lives and minds of all his young students. Perhaps this is where the film finds a place in the hearts of so many viewers. Many people will have spent their schooldays mired in tedium and waiting for someone to truly engage them. This is the gift that Mr. Keating bestows upon his students. The movie is a subtle, beautiful and moving examination of human relations.
The movie works heavily with the idiom that still waters run deep. Todd Anderson is new to the boarding school and extremely quiet. His shy nature is what guides him into the purview of Mr. Keating and allows him to become a sort of poetic protegé. The relationship between these two is one of the most touching parts of the movie and is sure to reach even the hardest of cynics out there.
To any potential viewer of this film, all I would say is open yourself up. This is a beautiful fim and will perhaps show what those schooldays could have been, given a little inspiration in the faculty.
Good for class.......2007-05-07
I used this in my class after reading several of the poems. Outstanding! Gave students a lot to think about.
saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews..........2007-05-01
Unarguably, one of the finest films in the history of cinema.
Breathing Life into School.......2007-03-17
`Dead Poets' Society' feels like a classic from start to finish. The movie finds Robin Williams in a break-out role that transcends his earlier, comedic work. Which is not to say he isn't funny at times in this movie; it's just that he's more well-rounded. If we didn't care about the poor lads at Welton Academy, the whole film would fall apart. A boarding school with the highest academic standards, Welton is presented as the epitome of 1950's conformity and convention.
It all begins when alumna, John Keating (Williams) replaces a deceased English professor at the aforementioned school. It's school motto is "Tradition, Honor, Discipline, and Excellence". It lives up to the standards, even if the emotional needs of the all-male institution don't seem to be met. Keating comes into the classroom, tearing at the textbook--literally, as well as metaphorically--while giving a context and a passion to find the meaning of poetry in their young lives. Digging out his old yearbook, they discover he was a decorated academic figure with a colorful past: He belonged to "The Dead Poets' Society," a secret, male-bonding organization off the school's extracurricular path. Wanting to emulate their "Captain, My Captain," as he takes from Walt Whitman, they reinstate his contraband club by skirting curfew and meeting in their teacher's former lair, a cave, where they perform pagan rituals of passion and enjoyment. Of course the whole affair is bound to bump heads with tradition and the administration, but the developments admirably keep our studied interest.
While columnist George Will has stated objections to the movie, noting that gratitude back then was higher and the tragedy presented in the film was far lower, the main mentor is a mouthpiece of caution. Good judgment is part and parcel to enjoyment of life. Who then can argue that pursuing one's passion is the goal and impetus to avoid making life "a life of quiet desperation," as he quotes Thoreau? In a separate column, Will did argue that the fifties weren't "The Dark Ages" they have been reported to be, significantly citing the advent of Alan Ginsberg, a Beat Poet, as his evidence. Nevertheless, 'Dead Poet's Society' supports a vision to grab the gusto in life and jealously guard one's dreams. Even though the actual cave scenes sometimes leave something to be desired, they are important for the development of the flow and the plot of the movie. They certainly are genuine. Making poetry a living art to try and match the soul is work of a real mentor. Even taken with a grain of salt, the movie's message is convincing and important.
a great and inspiring film.............2007-03-14
DEAD POET'S SOCIETY remains a very important film, to me. It reiterates the importance of being true to oneself in the face of conformity and alludes to the quote from scripture, "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust." Poetry teacher John Keating (Robin Williams), hired by Welton Academy Prep School (an all boys school) to teach their young students about Henry David Thoreau. His class leads to more than just a revival of poetry, but is also a visionary experience for the young men in Mr. Keating's course. The teacher inspires Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke), Knox Overstreet (Josh Charles), among others to Carpe Dieum ("Seize the Day"). The boys revive the Dead Poet's Society, a club that Keating himself belonged to in prep school. The study of poetry leads to the examination of their life's purposes and brings about a chain of important, life-changing events for all involved (I don't want to spoil the plot with any specific details).
Director Peter Weir (PICNIC ON HANGING ROCK) paints a compelling and sensitive portrait of the lives of young men, who were inspired and instructed by a truly visionary teacher. Not only do the actors deliver strong and engaging performances, but it also leaves the audience inspired.........
Average customer rating:
- Absolutely Timeless
- Good for class
- saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews...
- Breathing Life into School
- a great and inspiring film......
|
Dead Poets Society
Starring: Robin Williams , Robert Sean Leonard , Ethan Hawke , Josh Charles , and Gale Hansen
Director: Peter Weir
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
General
| Drama
| Genres
| DVD
| Video
Coming of Age
| By Theme
| Drama
| Genres
| DVD
| Video
School Days
| By Theme
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| Genres
| DVD
| Video
Teen Drama
| By Theme
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Hansen, Gale
| ( H )
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| ( S )
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Similar Items:
- Mr. Holland's Opus
- Stand and Deliver
- Finding Forrester
- The Emperor's Club (Widescreen Edition)
- Patch Adams - Collector's Edition
ASIN: 6305144168
Release Date: 1998-11-10 |
Amazon.com essential video
Robin Williams stars as an English teacher who doesn't fit into the conservative prep school where he teaches, but whose charisma and love of poetry inspires several boys to revive a secret society with a bohemian bent. The script is well meaning but a little trite, though director Peter Weir (The Truman Show) adds layers of emotional depth in scenes of conflict between the kids and adults. (A subplot involving one father's terrible pressure on his son--played by Robert Sean Leonard--to drop his interest in theater reaches heartbreaking proportions.) Williams is given plenty of latitude to work in his brand of improvisational humor, though it is all well-woven into his character's style of instruction. --Tom Keogh
Description
Academy Award(R)-winner Robin Williams delivers a brilliant performance in one of Hollywood's most compelling and thought-provoking motion pictures. Williams portrays passionate English professor John Keating who, in an age of crew cuts, sports coats, and cheerless conformity, inspires his students to live life to the fullest, exclaiming ... "Carpe Diem, lads! Seize the day. Make your lives extraordinary!" This charistmatic teacher's emotionally charged challenge is met by his students with irrepressible enthusiasm -- changing their lives forever. Magnificently directed by Peter Weir (THE TRUMAN SHOW), DEAD POETS SOCIETY earned unparalleled praise among audiences and critics alike. Discover for yourself what all the cheering's about!
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely Timeless.......2007-06-16
Some of the more cynical movie critics out there have been quick to slam 'Dead Poets Society', mistaking its beauty and idealism for over-sentimentality. In my view these critics simply need to open themselves up a little more.
The arrival of John Keating in a strict boys boarding school, blows open the lives and minds of all his young students. Perhaps this is where the film finds a place in the hearts of so many viewers. Many people will have spent their schooldays mired in tedium and waiting for someone to truly engage them. This is the gift that Mr. Keating bestows upon his students. The movie is a subtle, beautiful and moving examination of human relations.
The movie works heavily with the idiom that still waters run deep. Todd Anderson is new to the boarding school and extremely quiet. His shy nature is what guides him into the purview of Mr. Keating and allows him to become a sort of poetic protegé. The relationship between these two is one of the most touching parts of the movie and is sure to reach even the hardest of cynics out there.
To any potential viewer of this film, all I would say is open yourself up. This is a beautiful fim and will perhaps show what those schooldays could have been, given a little inspiration in the faculty.
Good for class.......2007-05-07
I used this in my class after reading several of the poems. Outstanding! Gave students a lot to think about.
saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews..........2007-05-01
Unarguably, one of the finest films in the history of cinema.
Breathing Life into School.......2007-03-17
`Dead Poets' Society' feels like a classic from start to finish. The movie finds Robin Williams in a break-out role that transcends his earlier, comedic work. Which is not to say he isn't funny at times in this movie; it's just that he's more well-rounded. If we didn't care about the poor lads at Welton Academy, the whole film would fall apart. A boarding school with the highest academic standards, Welton is presented as the epitome of 1950's conformity and convention.
It all begins when alumna, John Keating (Williams) replaces a deceased English professor at the aforementioned school. It's school motto is "Tradition, Honor, Discipline, and Excellence". It lives up to the standards, even if the emotional needs of the all-male institution don't seem to be met. Keating comes into the classroom, tearing at the textbook--literally, as well as metaphorically--while giving a context and a passion to find the meaning of poetry in their young lives. Digging out his old yearbook, they discover he was a decorated academic figure with a colorful past: He belonged to "The Dead Poets' Society," a secret, male-bonding organization off the school's extracurricular path. Wanting to emulate their "Captain, My Captain," as he takes from Walt Whitman, they reinstate his contraband club by skirting curfew and meeting in their teacher's former lair, a cave, where they perform pagan rituals of passion and enjoyment. Of course the whole affair is bound to bump heads with tradition and the administration, but the developments admirably keep our studied interest.
While columnist George Will has stated objections to the movie, noting that gratitude back then was higher and the tragedy presented in the film was far lower, the main mentor is a mouthpiece of caution. Good judgment is part and parcel to enjoyment of life. Who then can argue that pursuing one's passion is the goal and impetus to avoid making life "a life of quiet desperation," as he quotes Thoreau? In a separate column, Will did argue that the fifties weren't "The Dark Ages" they have been reported to be, significantly citing the advent of Alan Ginsberg, a Beat Poet, as his evidence. Nevertheless, 'Dead Poet's Society' supports a vision to grab the gusto in life and jealously guard one's dreams. Even though the actual cave scenes sometimes leave something to be desired, they are important for the development of the flow and the plot of the movie. They certainly are genuine. Making poetry a living art to try and match the soul is work of a real mentor. Even taken with a grain of salt, the movie's message is convincing and important.
a great and inspiring film.............2007-03-14
DEAD POET'S SOCIETY remains a very important film, to me. It reiterates the importance of being true to oneself in the face of conformity and alludes to the quote from scripture, "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust." Poetry teacher John Keating (Robin Williams), hired by Welton Academy Prep School (an all boys school) to teach their young students about Henry David Thoreau. His class leads to more than just a revival of poetry, but is also a visionary experience for the young men in Mr. Keating's course. The teacher inspires Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke), Knox Overstreet (Josh Charles), among others to Carpe Dieum ("Seize the Day"). The boys revive the Dead Poet's Society, a club that Keating himself belonged to in prep school. The study of poetry leads to the examination of their life's purposes and brings about a chain of important, life-changing events for all involved (I don't want to spoil the plot with any specific details).
Director Peter Weir (PICNIC ON HANGING ROCK) paints a compelling and sensitive portrait of the lives of young men, who were inspired and instructed by a truly visionary teacher. Not only do the actors deliver strong and engaging performances, but it also leaves the audience inspired.........
Average customer rating:
|
Dead Poets Society/Mr. Holland's Opus
Starring: Robin Williams , Robert Sean Leonard , Ethan Hawke , Josh Charles , and Gale Hansen
Director: Peter Weir , and Stephen Herek
Manufacturer: Walt Disney Video
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| ( P )
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Ruggiero, Allelon
| ( R )
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Smith, Kurtwood
| ( S )
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Waterston, James
| ( W )
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Williams, Robin
| ( W )
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ASIN: B00005KAR3
Release Date: 2001-11-06 |
Description
Dead Poets Society - English/French DVD- In an age defined by crew cuts, sport coats, and cheerless conformity, he not only broke the mold ... he reinvented it. Academy Award(R) winner Robin Williams (Best Supporting Actor, GOOD WILL HUNTING, 1997) delivers an extraordinary performance in one of the most compelling motion pictures of all time. Williams stars as English professor John Keating, a passionate iconoclast who changes his students' lives forever when he challenges them to live life to the fullest and "Carpe Diem" -- seize the day! Keating's unconventional approach meets with irrepressible enthusiasm from his students, but the faculty at staid, exclusive Welton Academy prep school is, to put it mildly, not amused. Featuring a star-marking performance by Ethan Hawke and over three hours of never-before-seen bonus materials, this Special Edition of DEAD POETS SOCIETY will captivate and inspire you again and again. Mr. Holland's Opus - English/French DVD -Acclaimed star Richard Dreyfuss gives the performance of a lifetime (1995 Academy Award(R)-nominee, Best Actor -- MR. HOLLAND'S OPUS) in this uplifting hit cheered by audiences everywhere! Glenn Holland (Dreyfuss) is a passionate musician who dreams of composing one truly memorable piece of music. But reality intrudes when he reluctantly accepts a "day job" as a high school music teacher to support his family. In time, however, Mr. Holland realizes that his real passion is teaching, and his legacy is the generations of young people he inspires. Also featuring Glenne Headly (BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS) and Olympia Dukakis (MAFIA!) -- you're sure to find this electrifying motion picture both entertaining ... and unforgettable!
![Dead Poets Society [Region 2]](http://www.germanelectronics88.com/noimage.gif)
Average customer rating:
- Absolutely Timeless
- Good for class
- saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews...
- Breathing Life into School
- a great and inspiring film......
|
Dead Poets Society [Region 2]
Starring: Robin Williams , Robert Sean Leonard , Ethan Hawke , Josh Charles , and Gale Hansen
Director: Peter Weir
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
General
| Drama
| Genres
| DVD
| Video
Boyle, Lara Flynn
| ( B )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Charles, Josh
| ( C )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Cooney, Kevin
| ( C )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Hansen, Gale
| ( H )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Hawke, Ethan
| ( H )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Kussman, Dylan
| ( K )
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| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Leonard, Robert Sean
| ( L )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Lloyd, Norman
| ( L )
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| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Powers, Alexandra
| ( P )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Ruggiero, Allelon
| ( R )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Smith, Kurtwood
| ( S )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Waterston, James
| ( W )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Williams, Robin
| ( W )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Weir, Peter
| ( W )
| Directors
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Used DVDs
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
| Action & Adventure
| African American Cinema
| Animation
| Anime & Manga
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| Comedy
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( D )
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Similar Items:
- Mr. Holland's Opus
- Stand and Deliver
- Finding Forrester
- The Emperor's Club (Widescreen Edition)
- Patch Adams - Collector's Edition
ASIN: B00004CXPT |
Amazon.com essential video
Robin Williams stars as an English teacher who doesn't fit into the conservative prep school where he teaches, but whose charisma and love of poetry inspires several boys to revive a secret society with a bohemian bent. The script is well meaning but a little trite, though director Peter Weir (The Truman Show) adds layers of emotional depth in scenes of conflict between the kids and adults. (A subplot involving one father's terrible pressure on his son--played by Robert Sean Leonard--to drop his interest in theater reaches heartbreaking proportions.) Williams is given plenty of latitude to work in his brand of improvisational humor, though it is all well-woven into his character's style of instruction. --Tom Keogh
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely Timeless.......2007-06-16
Some of the more cynical movie critics out there have been quick to slam 'Dead Poets Society', mistaking its beauty and idealism for over-sentimentality. In my view these critics simply need to open themselves up a little more.
The arrival of John Keating in a strict boys boarding school, blows open the lives and minds of all his young students. Perhaps this is where the film finds a place in the hearts of so many viewers. Many people will have spent their schooldays mired in tedium and waiting for someone to truly engage them. This is the gift that Mr. Keating bestows upon his students. The movie is a subtle, beautiful and moving examination of human relations.
The movie works heavily with the idiom that still waters run deep. Todd Anderson is new to the boarding school and extremely quiet. His shy nature is what guides him into the purview of Mr. Keating and allows him to become a sort of poetic protegé. The relationship between these two is one of the most touching parts of the movie and is sure to reach even the hardest of cynics out there.
To any potential viewer of this film, all I would say is open yourself up. This is a beautiful fim and will perhaps show what those schooldays could have been, given a little inspiration in the faculty.
Good for class.......2007-05-07
I used this in my class after reading several of the poems. Outstanding! Gave students a lot to think about.
saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews..........2007-05-01
Unarguably, one of the finest films in the history of cinema.
Breathing Life into School.......2007-03-17
`Dead Poets' Society' feels like a classic from start to finish. The movie finds Robin Williams in a break-out role that transcends his earlier, comedic work. Which is not to say he isn't funny at times in this movie; it's just that he's more well-rounded. If we didn't care about the poor lads at Welton Academy, the whole film would fall apart. A boarding school with the highest academic standards, Welton is presented as the epitome of 1950's conformity and convention.
It all begins when alumna, John Keating (Williams) replaces a deceased English professor at the aforementioned school. It's school motto is "Tradition, Honor, Discipline, and Excellence". It lives up to the standards, even if the emotional needs of the all-male institution don't seem to be met. Keating comes into the classroom, tearing at the textbook--literally, as well as metaphorically--while giving a context and a passion to find the meaning of poetry in their young lives. Digging out his old yearbook, they discover he was a decorated academic figure with a colorful past: He belonged to "The Dead Poets' Society," a secret, male-bonding organization off the school's extracurricular path. Wanting to emulate their "Captain, My Captain," as he takes from Walt Whitman, they reinstate his contraband club by skirting curfew and meeting in their teacher's former lair, a cave, where they perform pagan rituals of passion and enjoyment. Of course the whole affair is bound to bump heads with tradition and the administration, but the developments admirably keep our studied interest.
While columnist George Will has stated objections to the movie, noting that gratitude back then was higher and the tragedy presented in the film was far lower, the main mentor is a mouthpiece of caution. Good judgment is part and parcel to enjoyment of life. Who then can argue that pursuing one's passion is the goal and impetus to avoid making life "a life of quiet desperation," as he quotes Thoreau? In a separate column, Will did argue that the fifties weren't "The Dark Ages" they have been reported to be, significantly citing the advent of Alan Ginsberg, a Beat Poet, as his evidence. Nevertheless, 'Dead Poet's Society' supports a vision to grab the gusto in life and jealously guard one's dreams. Even though the actual cave scenes sometimes leave something to be desired, they are important for the development of the flow and the plot of the movie. They certainly are genuine. Making poetry a living art to try and match the soul is work of a real mentor. Even taken with a grain of salt, the movie's message is convincing and important.
a great and inspiring film.............2007-03-14
DEAD POET'S SOCIETY remains a very important film, to me. It reiterates the importance of being true to oneself in the face of conformity and alludes to the quote from scripture, "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust." Poetry teacher John Keating (Robin Williams), hired by Welton Academy Prep School (an all boys school) to teach their young students about Henry David Thoreau. His class leads to more than just a revival of poetry, but is also a visionary experience for the young men in Mr. Keating's course. The teacher inspires Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke), Knox Overstreet (Josh Charles), among others to Carpe Dieum ("Seize the Day"). The boys revive the Dead Poet's Society, a club that Keating himself belonged to in prep school. The study of poetry leads to the examination of their life's purposes and brings about a chain of important, life-changing events for all involved (I don't want to spoil the plot with any specific details).
Director Peter Weir (PICNIC ON HANGING ROCK) paints a compelling and sensitive portrait of the lives of young men, who were inspired and instructed by a truly visionary teacher. Not only do the actors deliver strong and engaging performances, but it also leaves the audience inspired.........
![Dead Poets Society [Region 2]](http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/21NARHB3CZL.jpg)
Average customer rating:
- Absolutely Timeless
- Good for class
- saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews...
- Breathing Life into School
- a great and inspiring film......
|
Dead Poets Society [Region 2]
Starring: Robin Williams , Robert Sean Leonard , Ethan Hawke , Josh Charles , and Gale Hansen
Director: Peter Weir
ProductGroup: DVD
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| ( B )
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ASIN: B00005AXLL |
Amazon.com essential video
Robin Williams stars as an English teacher who doesn't fit into the conservative prep school where he teaches, but whose charisma and love of poetry inspires several boys to revive a secret society with a bohemian bent. The script is well meaning but a little trite, though director Peter Weir (The Truman Show) adds layers of emotional depth in scenes of conflict between the kids and adults. (A subplot involving one father's terrible pressure on his son--played by Robert Sean Leonard--to drop his interest in theater reaches heartbreaking proportions.) Williams is given plenty of latitude to work in his brand of improvisational humor, though it is all well-woven into his character's style of instruction. --Tom Keogh
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely Timeless.......2007-06-16
Some of the more cynical movie critics out there have been quick to slam 'Dead Poets Society', mistaking its beauty and idealism for over-sentimentality. In my view these critics simply need to open themselves up a little more.
The arrival of John Keating in a strict boys boarding school, blows open the lives and minds of all his young students. Perhaps this is where the film finds a place in the hearts of so many viewers. Many people will have spent their schooldays mired in tedium and waiting for someone to truly engage them. This is the gift that Mr. Keating bestows upon his students. The movie is a subtle, beautiful and moving examination of human relations.
The movie works heavily with the idiom that still waters run deep. Todd Anderson is new to the boarding school and extremely quiet. His shy nature is what guides him into the purview of Mr. Keating and allows him to become a sort of poetic protegé. The relationship between these two is one of the most touching parts of the movie and is sure to reach even the hardest of cynics out there.
To any potential viewer of this film, all I would say is open yourself up. This is a beautiful fim and will perhaps show what those schooldays could have been, given a little inspiration in the faculty.
Good for class.......2007-05-07
I used this in my class after reading several of the poems. Outstanding! Gave students a lot to think about.
saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews..........2007-05-01
Unarguably, one of the finest films in the history of cinema.
Breathing Life into School.......2007-03-17
`Dead Poets' Society' feels like a classic from start to finish. The movie finds Robin Williams in a break-out role that transcends his earlier, comedic work. Which is not to say he isn't funny at times in this movie; it's just that he's more well-rounded. If we didn't care about the poor lads at Welton Academy, the whole film would fall apart. A boarding school with the highest academic standards, Welton is presented as the epitome of 1950's conformity and convention.
It all begins when alumna, John Keating (Williams) replaces a deceased English professor at the aforementioned school. It's school motto is "Tradition, Honor, Discipline, and Excellence". It lives up to the standards, even if the emotional needs of the all-male institution don't seem to be met. Keating comes into the classroom, tearing at the textbook--literally, as well as metaphorically--while giving a context and a passion to find the meaning of poetry in their young lives. Digging out his old yearbook, they discover he was a decorated academic figure with a colorful past: He belonged to "The Dead Poets' Society," a secret, male-bonding organization off the school's extracurricular path. Wanting to emulate their "Captain, My Captain," as he takes from Walt Whitman, they reinstate his contraband club by skirting curfew and meeting in their teacher's former lair, a cave, where they perform pagan rituals of passion and enjoyment. Of course the whole affair is bound to bump heads with tradition and the administration, but the developments admirably keep our studied interest.
While columnist George Will has stated objections to the movie, noting that gratitude back then was higher and the tragedy presented in the film was far lower, the main mentor is a mouthpiece of caution. Good judgment is part and parcel to enjoyment of life. Who then can argue that pursuing one's passion is the goal and impetus to avoid making life "a life of quiet desperation," as he quotes Thoreau? In a separate column, Will did argue that the fifties weren't "The Dark Ages" they have been reported to be, significantly citing the advent of Alan Ginsberg, a Beat Poet, as his evidence. Nevertheless, 'Dead Poet's Society' supports a vision to grab the gusto in life and jealously guard one's dreams. Even though the actual cave scenes sometimes leave something to be desired, they are important for the development of the flow and the plot of the movie. They certainly are genuine. Making poetry a living art to try and match the soul is work of a real mentor. Even taken with a grain of salt, the movie's message is convincing and important.
a great and inspiring film.............2007-03-14
DEAD POET'S SOCIETY remains a very important film, to me. It reiterates the importance of being true to oneself in the face of conformity and alludes to the quote from scripture, "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust." Poetry teacher John Keating (Robin Williams), hired by Welton Academy Prep School (an all boys school) to teach their young students about Henry David Thoreau. His class leads to more than just a revival of poetry, but is also a visionary experience for the young men in Mr. Keating's course. The teacher inspires Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke), Knox Overstreet (Josh Charles), among others to Carpe Dieum ("Seize the Day"). The boys revive the Dead Poet's Society, a club that Keating himself belonged to in prep school. The study of poetry leads to the examination of their life's purposes and brings about a chain of important, life-changing events for all involved (I don't want to spoil the plot with any specific details).
Director Peter Weir (PICNIC ON HANGING ROCK) paints a compelling and sensitive portrait of the lives of young men, who were inspired and instructed by a truly visionary teacher. Not only do the actors deliver strong and engaging performances, but it also leaves the audience inspired.........
Average customer rating:
|
Kodak: Lighting Dead Poets Society
Starring: Various
Manufacturer: First Light Video Publishing
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
( K )
| Titles
| Features
| DVD
| Video
General
| Educational
| Genres
| DVD
| Video
Used DVDs
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
| Action & Adventure
| African American Cinema
| Animation
| Anime & Manga
| Art House & International
| Classics
| Comedy
| Cult Movies
| Documentary
| Drama
| Educational
| Fitness & Yoga
| Gay & Lesbian
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| Kids & Family
| Military & War
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| Science Fiction & Fantasy
| Special Interests
| Sports
| Television
| Westerns
ASIN: B000BYA52I
Release Date: 2005-11-01 |
![Dead Poets Society [Region 2]](http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/214R6W4Q4YL.jpg)
Average customer rating:
- Absolutely Timeless
- Good for class
- saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews...
- Breathing Life into School
- a great and inspiring film......
|
Dead Poets Society [Region 2]
Starring: Robin Williams , Robert Sean Leonard , Ethan Hawke , Josh Charles , and Gale Hansen
Director: Peter Weir
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
General
| Drama
| Genres
| DVD
| Video
Boyle, Lara Flynn
| ( B )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Charles, Josh
| ( C )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Cooney, Kevin
| ( C )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Hansen, Gale
| ( H )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Hawke, Ethan
| ( H )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Kussman, Dylan
| ( K )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Leonard, Robert Sean
| ( L )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Lloyd, Norman
| ( L )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Powers, Alexandra
| ( P )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Ruggiero, Allelon
| ( R )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Smith, Kurtwood
| ( S )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
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Waterston, James
| ( W )
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| Stores
| DVD
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Williams, Robin
| ( W )
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Weir, Peter
| ( W )
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( D )
| Titles
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Similar Items:
- Mr. Holland's Opus
- Stand and Deliver
- Finding Forrester
- The Emperor's Club (Widescreen Edition)
- Patch Adams - Collector's Edition
ASIN: B00004RYG7 |
Amazon.com essential video
Robin Williams stars as an English teacher who doesn't fit into the conservative prep school where he teaches, but whose charisma and love of poetry inspires several boys to revive a secret society with a bohemian bent. The script is well meaning but a little trite, though director Peter Weir (The Truman Show) adds layers of emotional depth in scenes of conflict between the kids and adults. (A subplot involving one father's terrible pressure on his son--played by Robert Sean Leonard--to drop his interest in theater reaches heartbreaking proportions.) Williams is given plenty of latitude to work in his brand of improvisational humor, though it is all well-woven into his character's style of instruction. --Tom Keogh
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely Timeless.......2007-06-16
Some of the more cynical movie critics out there have been quick to slam 'Dead Poets Society', mistaking its beauty and idealism for over-sentimentality. In my view these critics simply need to open themselves up a little more.
The arrival of John Keating in a strict boys boarding school, blows open the lives and minds of all his young students. Perhaps this is where the film finds a place in the hearts of so many viewers. Many people will have spent their schooldays mired in tedium and waiting for someone to truly engage them. This is the gift that Mr. Keating bestows upon his students. The movie is a subtle, beautiful and moving examination of human relations.
The movie works heavily with the idiom that still waters run deep. Todd Anderson is new to the boarding school and extremely quiet. His shy nature is what guides him into the purview of Mr. Keating and allows him to become a sort of poetic protegé. The relationship between these two is one of the most touching parts of the movie and is sure to reach even the hardest of cynics out there.
To any potential viewer of this film, all I would say is open yourself up. This is a beautiful fim and will perhaps show what those schooldays could have been, given a little inspiration in the faculty.
Good for class.......2007-05-07
I used this in my class after reading several of the poems. Outstanding! Gave students a lot to think about.
saving the banter and redundancies of previous reviews..........2007-05-01
Unarguably, one of the finest films in the history of cinema.
Breathing Life into School.......2007-03-17
`Dead Poets' Society' feels like a classic from start to finish. The movie finds Robin Williams in a break-out role that transcends his earlier, comedic work. Which is not to say he isn't funny at times in this movie; it's just that he's more well-rounded. If we didn't care about the poor lads at Welton Academy, the whole film would fall apart. A boarding school with the highest academic standards, Welton is presented as the epitome of 1950's conformity and convention.
It all begins when alumna, John Keating (Williams) replaces a deceased English professor at the aforementioned school. It's school motto is "Tradition, Honor, Discipline, and Excellence". It lives up to the standards, even if the emotional needs of the all-male institution don't seem to be met. Keating comes into the classroom, tearing at the textbook--literally, as well as metaphorically--while giving a context and a passion to find the meaning of poetry in their young lives. Digging out his old yearbook, they discover he was a decorated academic figure with a colorful past: He belonged to "The Dead Poets' Society," a secret, male-bonding organization off the school's extracurricular path. Wanting to emulate their "Captain, My Captain," as he takes from Walt Whitman, they reinstate his contraband club by skirting curfew and meeting in their teacher's former lair, a cave, where they perform pagan rituals of passion and enjoyment. Of course the whole affair is bound to bump heads with tradition and the administration, but the developments admirably keep our studied interest.
While columnist George Will has stated objections to the movie, noting that gratitude back then was higher and the tragedy presented in the film was far lower, the main mentor is a mouthpiece of caution. Good judgment is part and parcel to enjoyment of life. Who then can argue that pursuing one's passion is the goal and impetus to avoid making life "a life of quiet desperation," as he quotes Thoreau? In a separate column, Will did argue that the fifties weren't "The Dark Ages" they have been reported to be, significantly citing the advent of Alan Ginsberg, a Beat Poet, as his evidence. Nevertheless, 'Dead Poet's Society' supports a vision to grab the gusto in life and jealously guard one's dreams. Even though the actual cave scenes sometimes leave something to be desired, they are important for the development of the flow and the plot of the movie. They certainly are genuine. Making poetry a living art to try and match the soul is work of a real mentor. Even taken with a grain of salt, the movie's message is convincing and important.
a great and inspiring film.............2007-03-14
DEAD POET'S SOCIETY remains a very important film, to me. It reiterates the importance of being true to oneself in the face of conformity and alludes to the quote from scripture, "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust." Poetry teacher John Keating (Robin Williams), hired by Welton Academy Prep School (an all boys school) to teach their young students about Henry David Thoreau. His class leads to more than just a revival of poetry, but is also a visionary experience for the young men in Mr. Keating's course. The teacher inspires Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke), Knox Overstreet (Josh Charles), among others to Carpe Dieum ("Seize the Day"). The boys revive the Dead Poet's Society, a club that Keating himself belonged to in prep school. The study of poetry leads to the examination of their life's purposes and brings about a chain of important, life-changing events for all involved (I don't want to spoil the plot with any specific details).
Director Peter Weir (PICNIC ON HANGING ROCK) paints a compelling and sensitive portrait of the lives of young men, who were inspired and instructed by a truly visionary teacher. Not only do the actors deliver strong and engaging performances, but it also leaves the audience inspired.........
![Dead Poets Society [Region 2]](http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/I/21RAZTAC4XL.jpg)
Average customer rating:
- "And what will your verse in the poem of life be?"
|
Dead Poets Society [Region 2]
Starring: Robin Williams , Robert Sean Leonard , Ethan Hawke , Josh Charles , and Gale Hansen
Director: Peter Weir
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD
General
| Drama
| Genres
| DVD
| Video
Boyle, Lara Flynn
| ( B )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Charles, Josh
| ( C )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Cooney, Kevin
| ( C )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Hansen, Gale
| ( H )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Hawke, Ethan
| ( H )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Kussman, Dylan
| ( K )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Leonard, Robert Sean
| ( L )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Lloyd, Norman
| ( L )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Powers, Alexandra
| ( P )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Ruggiero, Allelon
| ( R )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Smith, Kurtwood
| ( S )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Waterston, James
| ( W )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Williams, Robin
| ( W )
| Actors & Actresses
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
Weir, Peter
| ( W )
| Directors
| Stores
| DVD
| Video
( D )
| Titles
| Features
| DVD
| Video
ASIN: B00004VYPZ |
Customer Reviews:
"And what will your verse in the poem of life be?".......2006-10-07
"I learned this, at least, by my experiment; that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours." (Henry David Thoreau, "Walden.")
Hands up folks, how many of us discovered Thoreau after having watched this movie? *Really* discovered I mean, regardless whether you had known he'd existed before. How many believe they know what Thoreau was talking about in that passage about "sucking the marrow out of life" cited in the movie, even if you didn't spend the next 2+ years of your life living in a self-constructed cabin on a pond in the woods? How many bought a copy of Whitman's poems ... whatever collection? (And maybe even read more than "Oh Captain! My Captain!"?) How many went on to read Emerson? Frost? Or John Keats, on whose personality Robin Williams's John Keating is probably losely based? Judging by the vast majority of the reviews on this site alone, you just can't fail to notice that this movie has a powerful appeal like few others; "inspirational" is probably the most frequently used word in the opinions represented here. And justifiedly so, despite the fact that charismatic Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard), one of the movie's main characters, tragically falters in the pursuit of his dreams, in the wake of apparent triumph. Because although Neil's story is one of failure, ultimately this movie is a celebration of the triumph of free will, independent thinking and the growth of personality; embodied in its closing scene.
Of course, lofty goals such as these are not easily achieved. Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke) in particular, the last scene's triumphant hero, is literally pushed to the edge of reason before he learns to overcome his inhibitions. And Thoreau said in "Walden:" "If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; That is where they should be. Now put the foundations under them." Anyone who takes this movie's message to heart (and Thoreau's, and Whitman's, and Emerson's, Frost's and Keats's) knows that success too easily won is often no success at all, and most of our truly important accomplishments are based on focus, tenacity and hard work as much as on anything else. And prudence, too ... dashing Charlie Dalton (Gale Hansen) pays a high price for his spur-of-the-moment challenges of authority; although of course you just gotta love him for refusing to sign Keating's indictment. "Carpe diem" -- live life to its fullest, but always know what you are doing, too.
You won't enjoy this movie if you are afraid of letting your mind and your feelings run free. Shot on the magnificent location of Delaware's St. Andrews Academy, "Dead Poets' Society" is visually stunning, particularly in its depiction of the amazingly beautiful scenery (where the progression of the seasons mirrors the progression of the movie's story line), and it is as emotionally engaging as it invites you to mentally reexamine your position in life. Robin Williams delivers another Academy Award-worthy performance (he was nominated but unfortunately didn't win). Of course, Robin Williams will to a certain extent always be Robin Williams ... "Aladdin's" Genie, "Good Morning Vietnam's" Adrian Cronauer and "Good Will Hunting's" Professor McGuire (the 1997 role which would finally earn him his long overdue Oscar) all shimmer through in his portrayal of John Keating; and if you've ever seen him give an interview you know that the man can go from hilarious and irreverent to deeply reflective in a split second even when it's not a movie camera that's rolling. Yet, the black sheep among Welton Academy's teachers assumes as distinct and memorable a personality as any other one of Williams's film characters.
Of its many Academy Award nominations (in addition to Robin Williams's nomination for best leading actor, the movie was also nominated in the best picture, best director [Peter Weir] and best original screenplay categories), "Dead Poets' Society" ultimately only won the Oscar for Tom Schulman's script. But more importantly, it has long since won it's viewers' lasting appreciation, and for a reason. -- As the Poet said: "Camerado! This is no book; Who touches this, touches a man" (Walt Whitman, "So Long!"), this is no movie; who watches this, watches himself!
DVD:
- The Agony and the Ecstasy
- Longitude
- La Strada - Criterion Collection
- In the Realm of the Senses
- William Thackeray's Vanity Fair
- Judex (Deluxe Edition)
- Stand By Me (Special Edition)
- What's Love Got To Do With It?
- Cleopatra (Five Star Collection)
- Conspiracy
DVD
DVD
DVD
CBS Evening News (June 03, 2002)
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DVD: The Longest Day
Run