28. In a revealing interview, Robin Williams shared that Dead Poets Society stands out as one of his most cherished films in which he ever participated. He articulated, “There was something in that movie that impacted audiences on a level that transcended mere entertainment.” He recounted an encounter with a fan who said, “Mr. Williams, after watching Dead Poets, I left my corporate job, discarded my business attire, and now I run an art gallery.” Williams responded with enthusiasm, stating, “I need to purchase a lot of art from you!” This moment encapsulates the profound influence of the film on individuals’ lives, showcasing the power of cinema to inspire personal transformation.

In a memorable Reddit AMA, Williams expressed his admiration for Peter Weir, highlighting him as one of the most influential directors he had the pleasure of collaborating with. Reflecting on Weir’s insights during a 1990 interview, it was noted that he recognized Williams’ ability to portray the “quieter, more introspective” character of Keating. Weir stated he had encountered the “thoughtful, humorous soul” within Williams upon their first meeting, which made him confident in Williams’ capacity to embody this complex role with authenticity and depth.

29. Following the tragic passing of Robin Williams in 2014, the phrase “O Captain, my Captain” gained a poignant resonance, inspiring countless tributes that invoked this iconic line from Dead Poets Society as a heartfelt homage to the beloved actor. This sentiment was particularly poignant for Ethan Hawke, who mentioned that fans frequently recited this line to him. Reflecting on the loss, Hawke shared, “When he died, I revisited the entire poem, and it was profoundly devastating.” He was referring to the moving poem by Walt Whitman, which captures themes of grief and remembrance, further emphasizing Williams’ lasting legacy.

30. During the initial stages of filming, Hawke harbored the misconception that Williams disliked him because the veteran actor was committed to maintaining his character’s demeanor. This dedication, however, clashed with Hawke’s improv-driven approach, leading to a comedic tug-of-war. “The more I restrained my laughter, the more outrageous he became,” Hawke reminisced. “I mistakenly believed he was frustrated with me due to his constant teasing.” In reality, their dynamic was a playful exchange, culminating in a life-changing moment for Hawke when he received a call from Williams’ agent post-production. “The agent said, ‘Williams believes you have potential and I should represent you,'” Hawke recounted. “This pivotal connection led to securing my first agent, who continues to represent me today.”