Whilst this is intelligently written (as always), once again we are in profound disagreement, this time re: the Neil storyline. I don’t think anything about this was romanticised, and indeed the scenario is alarmingly plausible, for reasons I get into in my own recent piece on the film (not sure if you saw it). I should add that it seems entirely in keeping with Neil’s character as I read it (regardless of what was written in the original draft). Just because someone is outwardly energetic and life-affirming doesn’t mean they don’t despair, feel trapped, or unable to confront those who are causing them pain. Also, I don’t think this scene comes out of the blue but it is the natural upshot of this subplot, clearly telegraphed from the very beginning (even though it still comes as a shock).

More here, for my full reasoning on this matter. :)

Dead Poets Society: 35 Years On | Fanfare