19 heartfelt dramas you must watch if you loved Dead Poets Society

Modified Jan 29, 2025 08:47 ET

Saoirse Ronan in Lady Bird | Image via A24

9) The Holdovers (2023)

Paul Giamatti in The Holdovers | Image via Universal Pictures

This Oscar-nominated drama is a touching story set during Christmas break in 1970. Paul Hunham, played by Paul Giamatti, a strict teacher, has to stay at a boarding school with a rebellious student, Angus (Dominic Sessa), and Mary (Da'Vine Joy Randolph), the school cook who is grieving the loss of her son in the Vietnam War. At first, they don't get along, but as they spend time together, they start to understand and support each other. Their unexpected bond helps them all heal and grow, making it a heartwarming and inspiring film about connection and personal growth.