Robin Williams as 1959 New England prep school teacher John Keating is unforgettable as the inspiration to his young male students to fall in love with literature and open their minds. He tells them about the Dead Poets' Society, and encourages them to "Seize the day." An exceedingly shy student, Todd Anderson (Leonard) has to live up to his elder brother's popular image; Todd's sharp roommate Neil (Hawke) struggles to get out from under the influence of his controlling fathers. The Society, and teacher Keating encourage the young ment to stand up to the status quo. The movie's message is strong and clear, especically for younger viewers.