Rom-Com enthusiasts will love ‘10 Things I Hate About You’

Annabel Everett, Staff Writer

The critically-acclaimed film, ‘10 Things I Hate About You’ is based on Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ and is beloved by viewers with a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5.

This one hour and 37 seven minute film, released in 1999, features main character Kat Stratford, played by Julia Stiles, and her love interest, Patrick Verona, played by Heath Ledger. The timeless movie is appealing to people of all ages and is a great film choice for Valentine’s Day.
In the movie, Kat is portrayed as abrasive and aggressive, which makes her undesirable to most of the guys in her senior class. Alternatively, her sister Bianca is depicted as sweet, innocent, and beautiful, making her extremely charming and popular.
However, a rule in Kat’s and Bianca’s household forbids Bianca from dating anyone until Kat gets a boyfriend. Cameron, who wants to date Bianca, gives Joey Donner the idea to get Patrick to ask out Kat. Joey agrees and pays Patrick Verona to pursue Kat as a love interest, so Bianca will be able to date. This creates a dynamic between Patrick and Kat that feels forced at first but which slowly grows into a romance.
The movie takes place in the Pacific Northwest of Washington state, and is set in the 1990s, providing a nostalgic feel for the viewer.
The script of the movie is also very well-written, even though parts of it could be described as “cheesy.” The plot of the film draws the viewer in while also being easy to follow.
I feel as though I can watch and understand the movie while being preoccupied with something else and not have to pay too much attention to it.
However, what makes this movie truly incredible are the characters. The characters in the movie are very lovable, and every time I watch the movie, I find myself getting attached to the characters and relating to their emotions and feelings.
Overall, this movie is a great Valentine’s Day romantic comedy choice because people of all ages can enjoy it, and it encompasses all the childlike joy and nostalgia of high school, as well as a more mature level of romance.