10 Things I Hate About You (1999) is an iconic American teen romantic comedy directed by Gil Junger, featuring Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Larisa Oleynik. The film is a clever, modern adaptation of William Shakespeare’s classic play The Taming of the Shrew, set in a lively 1990s high school.
🎬 Plot Overview
- New student Cameron James (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) quickly falls for popular sophomore Bianca Stratford (Larisa Oleynik). But there’s one catch: Bianca’s strict father forbids her from dating until her older sister, the outspoken and antisocial Kat (Julia Stiles), dates first.
- Determined, Cameron and his friend Michael (David Krumholtz) recruit the rebellious school outsider, Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger), to pursue Kat.
- As Patrick attempts to win Kat over, their relationship unfolds through misunderstandings, witty banter, and sincere moments, resulting in one of the most iconic teen romances of its time.
💫 Why It Stands Out
- ✅ Shakespeare Reimagined:
An innovative and humorous retelling of The Taming of the Shrew set in a relatable high school environment. - ✅ Unforgettable Performances:
Heath Ledger’s charming bad-boy charisma and Julia Stiles’ fiercely independent portrayal of Kat create a lasting impression. - ✅ Iconic Scenes & Dialogue:
From Patrick’s unforgettable stadium serenade to Kat’s emotional poetry reading, the film is packed with memorable moments and clever lines. - ✅ Cult Classic Status:
Widely regarded as one of the greatest teen rom-coms ever, it continues to resonate with new generations of viewers.
🌟 Reception & Legacy
- Released on March 31, 1999, the film grossed $53.7 million worldwide.
- Critics praised its sharp writing, genuine humor, and standout performances.
- The film’s popularity led to a short-lived TV series adaptation in 2009, further cementing its legacy in popular culture.