10 Things I Hate About You (1999) Movie Review: A Timeless Teen Rom-Com Classic

Introduction

Few teen rom-coms from the late 90s have stood the test of time quite like 10 Things I Hate About You (1999). Directed by Gil Junger and starring Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Larisa Oleynik, this modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew continues to captivate audiences with its sharp wit, memorable performances, and heartfelt romance. With its blend of humor, high school drama, and genuine emotion, 10 Things I Hate About You remains one of the most beloved romantic comedies of its era.

Plot Summary

Set in a high school in Seattle, the film follows Cameron James (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), a new student who instantly falls for Bianca Stratford (Larisa Oleynik). However, Bianca is forbidden from dating unless her older sister, Kat (Julia Stiles), also dates. Kat, known for her rebellious attitude and strong personality, has little interest in high school social life or romance. To circumvent this rule, Cameron enlists the help of bad-boy Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger), paying him to take Kat out. What starts as a scheme soon turns into a genuine romance between Kat and Patrick, leading to one of the most iconic love stories in teen movie history.

Standout Performances

Julia Stiles delivers a standout performance as Kat Stratford, embodying the character’s intelligence, independence, and vulnerability. She creates a compelling feminist heroine who is ahead of her time, rejecting societal expectations and unapologetically speaking her mind. One of the most powerful moments in the film is her emotional poem recitation, which gives the film its title and remains an iconic scene in teen cinema.

Heath Ledger’s portrayal of Patrick Verona is equally unforgettable. His charisma and natural charm make him the perfect love interest, and his rendition of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” in the school stadium is one of the film’s most memorable moments. Ledger’s ability to balance Patrick’s rough exterior with his genuine care for Kat adds depth to his character, making him one of the most beloved romantic leads in the genre.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Larisa Oleynik also shine in their roles, providing the film with a secondary romance that adds an extra layer of charm. Gordon-Levitt’s portrayal of Cameron is endearing, as he embodies the lovesick yet determined high school student willing to do anything for love.

Sharp Writing and Timeless Humor

What sets 10 Things I Hate About You apart from other teen rom-coms is its sharp and clever writing. The script, penned by Karen McCullah and Kirsten Smith, modernizes Shakespeare’s play while maintaining its themes of love, deception, and identity. The dialogue is filled with witty banter, sarcastic humor, and heartfelt moments, making it highly quotable even decades after its release.

The film also excels in its depiction of high school culture. Unlike some teen movies that rely on outdated stereotypes, 10 Things I Hate About You presents well-rounded characters with distinct personalities. Kat is not just a “shrew” but a young woman who refuses to conform, while Patrick is more than just a bad boy—he’s someone with his own vulnerabilities and depth.

Memorable Soundtrack and Cinematic Style

The movie’s soundtrack is another standout element, featuring a mix of late 90s alternative and pop-punk music that perfectly complements its rebellious yet romantic tone. Tracks like “I Want You to Want Me” by Letters to Cleo and “Cruel to Be Kind” add to the film’s energy and memorability.

Visually, the film captures the essence of late-90s high school life with colorful cinematography and dynamic camera work. The Seattle setting adds a unique charm, and the use of real high school locations enhances the authenticity of the film’s world.

Themes and Lasting Impact

At its core, 10 Things I Hate About You explores themes of individuality, self-acceptance, and the complexities of relationships. Kat’s journey is one of embracing vulnerability without losing her strength, while Patrick learns to open up and be honest about his feelings. The film’s message about being true to oneself continues to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic.

Since its release, the movie has gained a cult following and remains a favorite among fans of the genre. It has inspired countless adaptations, references in pop culture, and even a short-lived TV series. Its influence can be seen in later teen movies that strive to balance humor, romance, and genuine emotion as effectively as 10 Things I Hate About You does.

Conclusion: A Must-Watch Rom-Com

More than two decades after its release, 10 Things I Hate About You remains one of the best teen romantic comedies ever made. With unforgettable performances, witty writing, and a perfect blend of humor and heart, it continues to captivate audiences of all generations. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or revisiting it for nostalgia, this film delivers a heartfelt and entertaining experience that never gets old.