Why '10 Things I Hate About You' Still Captivates Us Decades Later
By Natalie McCarty
Still from 10 Things I Hate About You
One of the most unforgettable moments of my teenage years was watching 10 Things I Hate About You with my high school boyfriend and his dad. My boyfriend at the time had an uncanny resemblance to Heath Ledger, down to the same mannerisms, which made it impossible not to be even more obsessed with the film.
Still from 10 Things I Hate About You
I’d seen the movie several times before; my best friend had even handmade a replica of Heath Ledger’s character Patrick’s sterling silver pinky ring for me our freshmen year of high school. Now, as an adult, I still wear that ring every day—a small reminder of the impact the film had on me.
Still from 10 Things I Hate About You
10 Things I Hate About You is more than just another teen movie; it’s a defining piece of late '90s cinema that transcends its genre to become a cultural touchstone. Released in 1999, this modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew masterfully blends the Bard’s themes with the angst and humor of high school life. It’s a striking way of reimagining a classic and putting it in a modern context, while also delivering a film that is both witty and heartfelt. It’s a cult classic that has left an indelible mark on our culture, with lines that people still quote daily.
This film is perfect at every stage of life. As a preteen, it’s a hopeful glimpse into what your teenage years might bring. As a teenager, it validates the high school life experience. And as an adult, it invites you to reminisce and see the characters through fresh eyes, offering new perspectives and insights. 10 Things I Hate About You is a critically acclaimed film that remains a memorable and influential piece of cinema.
So, let’s dive in and explore what makes this film a lasting favorite.
Still from 10 Things I Hate About You
Heath Ledger: An Iconic Performance
One of the film’s most enduring legacies is the breakout performance of Heath Ledger as the charming Patrick Verona. Ledger, with his effortless charisma and devil-may-care attitude, turned what could have been a typical “bad boy” role into something truly iconic. His portrayal is layered with vulnerability, wit, and a subtle sensitivity that adds depth to his character.
From his unforgettable serenade of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” in the school stadium to the moments of quiet introspection, Ledger brought a magnetism to the screen that captured the hearts of audiences everywhere.
He also set standards for both my high school relationships as well as my adult ones. Sorry! There’s just a lit bit of Patrick in all of them.
Anyway, his performance in 10 Things I Hate About You is often cited as one of the defining roles of his career, setting the stage for the incredible range of characters he would go on to portray. Ledger’s untimely passing has only heightened the significance of his work, with his role in this film remaining a cult classic for fans and a testament to his undeniable talent.
Still from 10 Things I Hate About You
The Unforgettable Style of the Late '90s
Beyond its sharp dialogue and engaging plot, 10 Things I Hate About You is a cinematic achievement that offers a snapshot of late '90s fashion and style–with trends that we still see in today’s culture. The film’s costume design is a seamless blend of grunge and preppy, perfectly capturing the diverse personalities of its characters. It’s like a love letter to the Seattle grunge scene, mixed with the era’s polished high school trends.
Kat Stratford’s wardrobe is a standout, exuding an effortlessly cool and rebellious vibe. Her combat boots, cropped tees, and minimalist accessories are more than just fashion choices—they're an extension of her independent spirit and defiance of societal expectations. Absolutely did she influenced my high school wardrobe. In contrast, Bianca’s polished and trendy outfits reflect her desire to fit in and navigate the high school social hierarchy, highlighting the differences in how the sisters approach their worlds.
The setting of Padua High School, with its vibrant colors and eclectic architecture, adds another layer to the film’s unique aesthetic. This combination of stylish costumes, iconic backdrops, and a perfectly curated soundtrack creates a world that feels both nostalgic and timeless. It all ties back to the Shakespearean roots of the story, blending the classic with the contemporary.
Still from 10 Things I Hate About You
Kat Stratford: A Feminist Icon
Kat Stratford, portrayed by Julia Stiles, is far from the typical female lead in a teen rom-com. She’s smart, outspoken, and unafraid to challenge the status quo, making her a powerful and empowering character for viewers. In a genre often criticized for its stereotypical portrayals of women, Kat stands out as a feminist icon who refuses to conform to societal expectations.
Her journey throughout the film is one of self-discovery and growth. While she begins as a fiercely independent and somewhat closed-off character, she slowly learns to let others in without sacrificing her sense of self. Kat’s refusal to compromise her beliefs for the sake of popularity or romance is a powerful message for young viewers, reminding them of the importance of staying true to oneself.
Still from 10 Things I Hate About You
Kat’s intelligence and wit are her defining traits, and the film does an excellent job of portraying her as a multi-dimensional character. She’s not just the “shrew” to be tamed; she’s a fully realized individual with her own desires, fears, and strengths. Her arc is not about changing who she is but rather about finding balance and allowing herself to be vulnerable without losing her independence.
And, come on now, I have quite possibly never wanted to be anyone anymore than Kat in that one scene where she dances on the table at the party. Just so, so cool.
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The Poem Scene
If there's one scene that truly encapsulates the emotional core of 10 Things I Hate About You, it’s Kat’s tearful reading of her poem in English class. This moment, which gives the film its title, is a raw and unfiltered expression of her conflicted feelings for Patrick—a mix of anger, hurt, and love that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever experienced the intensity of first love. It’s quintessentially high school in the best way possible—intense, passionate, and full of that all-consuming emotion that defines young love.
Julia Stiles delivers this scene with such authenticity and emotion that it’s impossible not to be moved. Her voice cracks as she reads, tears streaming down her face, revealing that the “hate” she professes is merely a facade masking the deep love she has developed for Patrick. The poem, with lines like “I hate the way you talk to me, and the way you cut your hair,” perfectly captures the confusion and pain of young love, where anger and affection are often so closely intertwined.
This scene is a profound exploration of vulnerability and the complexities of human emotion. It’s a poignant reminder that love is rarely simple, and that sometimes the things we claim to “hate” about someone are the very things we miss most when they’re gone. The poem scene has become one of the most iconic moments in teen movie history, a testament to the film’s emotional depth and the power of Stiles’ performance.
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A Cultural Touchstone for a Generation
10 Things I Hate About You has endured as a beloved classic because it manages to strike a balance between humor and heart, between teen angst and meaningful romance, between Shakespeare and the 90s. It’s a film that doesn’t shy away from the messy, complicated emotions of being a teenager, yet it presents them in a way that is both entertaining and deeply relatable. Its influence can be seen in countless teen movies that followed, but few have managed to capture the same magic.
As we reflect on the impact of 10 Things I Hate About You, it’s clear that the film’s legacy goes beyond its initial release. It introduced us to the undeniable talent of Heath Ledger, solidified Julia Stiles as one of the leading actresses of her generation, and left us with a wealth of quotable lines and unforgettable moments.
In the end, 10 Things I Hate About You is more than just a nostalgic trip back to the '90s; it’s a film that continues to resonate with new audiences because of its universal themes and memorable performances. It’s a testament to the idea that a great story, well told, can transcend time and place, becoming a cultural artifact that defines a generation.
Still from 10 Things I Hate About You
