Dead Poets Society
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Is it age appropriate?
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Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Spell-casting film of a teacher to troubled boys.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 13 and Up
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Dead Poets Society was written by Randy White
Parents need to know the movie celebrates the power of language, and may induce a love of reading, poetry, and theater. Kids are encouraged to think for themselves and pursue their dreams. One of the lead boys commits suicide off-screen.
Families Can Talk About
Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
- Families can talk about the pressures kids face and what would drive someone to take their own life.
Have you seen it? Review It!
More on Dead Poets Society
What’s the Story?
Robin Williamplays an eccentric English teacher who has an interesting take on why poets write poetry: "To woo women!" This thrills his teenage charges. The catch phrases "carpe diem" (seize the day) and Thoreau's "suck the marrow out of life," were equally well received.
Is It Any Good?
Older kids fall hard for this coming-of-age drama; they love the way it challenges them to think for themselves. The story also tugs at their heartstrings. They get to know the boys -- their loves, their goals, and their fears. They root for the characters, wanting them to achieve their dreams (one boy wants to play the sax, another wants to become an actor).
Despite Robin William's fine (if a tad cloying) performance, the movie belongs to the boys, and the ensemble cast of young male actors is up to the task. The movie also has a spell-casting ambiance, especially in the cave scenes.
Movie Details
Studio: Touchstone Pictures, Director: Peter Weir
Run time: 128 minutes
Theatrical release: 3/4/2002, DVD release: 3/4/2002
MPAA Rating: PG for emotional intensity
Run time: 128 minutes
Theatrical release: 3/4/2002, DVD release: 3/4/2002
MPAA Rating: PG for emotional intensity
Our Members Say
See all 6 member reviews
Most Recent Reviews
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
What a wonderful film for kids to see in this day and age!
Everytiem I see this fine coming of age film I am more impressed with the lesson it can show to pre-teens and teens of our time. Although what was "racy" in 1959 seems timid today, the lessons of being yourself, valuing education, repsecting others and having faith in yourslef are timeless.
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
Inspiring and Great
Dead Poets Society is a great film. Robin Williams gives a great performance, and it is inspiring and interesting. Good for kids 13+
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I rate this title on for age 0 and give it
Gripping personal story
This story is inspiring and intense. Adolescence is trying time of change, uncertainty, growth and confusion. All of these elements are represented in this story. I would say that this movie gives parents an opportunity to open a discussion with there adolescent child about many of the issues that they will be experiencing in the coming years and how as parents we can be a guiding hand even as we begin to let go. This story takes a shocking turn but that only adds to the intensity of the underlying message.
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I rate this title pause for age 0 and give it
okay...
this movie was really good, ill admit. but it really made me think about suicide. it may be very triggering. and i cried 4 like 30 mins. jus thinkin bout how bad life really is. but sum people might lke it...
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