The Best Movies About Prep School

Dead Poets Society, an inspiring and influential film, follows the story of an English teacher, John Keating, portrayed by the legendary Robin Williams, who encourages his students to seize the day at the conservative Welton Academy. Breathing new life into traditional methods, Keating challenges the norms and ignites a passion for poetry amongst his pupils, eventually forming the infamous secret society. This Academy Award-winning masterpiece delves deep into the trials and tribulations of self-expression and the need to challenge old ideas within the rigid walls of a prestigious boarding school.

School Ties exemplifies the intensity of life at an elite 1950s boarding school, welcoming David Greene, played by the charismatic Brendan Fraser, a working-class Jewish teen awarded a football scholarship. As Greene encounters prejudice and betrayal, his journey unearths the barriers built by social and religious stigmas masked behind the façade of comradery. This critically acclaimed film highlights the courage it takes to stand alone, fight bigotry, and defy expectations in a pressure-cooker environment.

Wild Child, a rambunctious romp embracing British boarding school traditions, revolves around Malibu socialite, Poppy Moore, played by Emma Roberts, as she is shipped off to the esteemed Abbey Mount School. Through her comical trials of discipline, competitiveness, and British cultural differences, Poppy blossoms from a rebellious teen into a composed and caring individual. The unabashed hilarity and lessons of growth in this coming-of-age film leave lasting impressions on viewers.

Au revoir, les enfants, a thought-provoking film inspired by director Louis Malle's own experiences during Nazi-occupied France, unveils the story of a Catholic boarding school providing refuge to Jewish students. The narrative follows Julien, a reserved protagonist, as he forms an unexpected friendship with the secretive new addition, Jean Bonnet. The film, a recipient of numerous accolades, expertly reveals the human spirit's resilience amidst trying circumstances in the context of an elite scholastic institution.

The Craft, a spellbinding supernatural thriller, delves into the lives of four outcast teenagers, led by the enigmatic Nancy, portrayed by Fairuza Balk, who seek solace in witchcraft at their preparatory school. As their newfound powers begin to spiral out of control, the film explores the repercussions of succumbing to one's darkest desires. Set against the backdrop of a prestigious boarding school, The Craft becomes a thrilling exploration of morality, identity, and the consequences of misused power.

Scent of a Woman showcases an intense and transformative weekend shared by the blind, retired Army officer, Lt. Frank Slade, played by the illustrious Al Pacino, and prep school student, Charlie Simms, portrayed by Chris O'Donnell. Their rendezvous exposes Charlie to the complexities, passions, and harsh realities of life outside of his privileged school environment. Anchored by Pacino's unforgettable performance, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, this film highlights the indispensable role of empathy and human connection in transcending the boundaries of class and status.