With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it felt only appropriate to review my all-time favorite romantic comedy: “10 Things I Hate About You.” Directed by Gil Junger in 1999, this film blends two of my favorite elements — teen movies and Shakespeare retellings — resulting in a heartwarming viewing experience, especially fitting for the holiday of love.
Based on William Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew,” the movie quickly became a staple in the teen romance genre, earning its status as a cult classic. Julia Stiles portrays high school senior Kat Stratford, our modern-day “shrew,” described as antisocial, rebellious, intelligent and abrasive — the polar opposite of her popular, outgoing, queen-bee younger sister, Bianca, played by Larisa Oleynik.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s character, Cameron James, aims to take Bianca to the prom. However, the obstacle arises from the girls’ overprotective father, who forbids Bianca from dating until her older sister, the college-focused and headstrong Kat, does. Undeterred, Cameron hatches up a plan to hire the school’s handsome bad boy, Patrick Verona (played by the late Heath Ledger), to win Kat’s heart.
True to the genre, “10 Things I Hate About You” is as romantic as it is comedic. The on-screen chemistry between Stiles and Ledger is remarkable, which made me dream of the day a boy would dance and sing for me in our high school bleachers or kiss me in the middle of a paintball course.
What sets this film apart from its ’90s teen movie counterparts is its strong female leads. Kat Stratford, a strong-willed and feminist character, quickly became one of my favorite female characters of all time during my childhood. Additionally, despite initially appearing as a typical girly girl, Bianca surprises viewers by showcasing her intelligence throughout the film.
Being a fan of Shakespeare retellings, I found “10 Things I Hate About You” to be both original and unique, staying true to “The Taming of the Shrew” while cleverly incorporating nods to Shakespeare throughout the film. Spotting these references feels like an engaging Easter egg hunt.
Adding to its charm is the layer of nostalgia that “10 Things I Hate About You” brings to viewers. For many, this film is not just a romantic comedy; it’s a trip down memory lane, a reminder of the magic that teen movies held during that era. From the fashion that speaks for the decade to the film’s iconic ska soundtrack, “10 Things I Hate About You” serves as a time capsule for the turn of the century.
Another standout feature that elevates “10 Things I Hate About You” above other ’90s teen movies of its kind is its exceptional cast. The film served as a launchpad for the careers of Stiles, Gordon-Levitt and Ledger, whose memorable performances solidified the movie’s place in the hearts of movie lovers for decades to come.
Released in 1999, the film was an immediate success, grossing $8.3 million in its opening weekend and securing the second spot at the box office. Since then, it has become a cherished cult classic, earning its place in both the romantic comedy and teen movie genres.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, “10 Things I Hate About You” presents the perfect opportunity for a cozy night in. Whether you’re celebrating with a significant other, friends or even on your own, the movie’s delightful mix of romance, humor and memorable performances promises to make your Valentine’s Day a truly enjoyable and heartwarming experience.
“10 Things I Hate About You” is rated PG-13 and is available to stream on Disney+, fuboTV and Hulu with a premium subscription.
