When it comes to teen romance and cliches done right, no one does it better than 90s movies. Fan-favorite rom-com 10 Things I Hate About You, starring Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles, finds its way back to our hearts as Netflix streams it almost 25 years after its release. The classic film follows Kat Stratford, a teenage girl who’s beautiful and smart, but far more callous than others her age. Meaning, she doesn’t attract boys – nor does she want to. Unfortunately, for her younger sister Bianca, who’s popular and longing for a “normal” teen life, she can’t date until her sister does – at least, that’s what house rules say. So, people begin placing bets behind the scenes on whether or not rebellious bad-boy Patrick Verona can manage to date Kat. The movie’s nostalgic cinematography, classic plot, timeless music, and memorable scenes make it a film loved by all, even today.
Many would agree that older movies truly do just resonate deeper and stand out more than many modern films do. Take for example, Mean Girls, She’s All That, or Legally Blonde – we love them and always go back to rewatch them, even decades after their initial release. Part of what makes these movies so captivating to watch is how they’re filmed: their raw aesthetic and innovative use of color and lighting. In 10 Things I Hate About You, the film’s color palette is especially rich, allowing it to encompass the nostalgic late-90s high school atmosphere perfectly. The scenes in the movie itself are more energetic and fluid, often utilizing long, theatrical takes that make the visual style feel more like a stage-play, creating a vibrant and authentic world for the characters.
The storyline of the movie, although some may say its cliche, is enthralling and interesting to watch. There’s gradual but steady tension building up to the climax, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats, waiting for Patrick to reveal the truth about the dare.The high school setting is also a relatable one for teens and adolescents alike, showcasing the struggles of social hierarchy within school and breaking away from feminine stereotypes while holding a firm grasp on one’s identity. For many teenagers, this movie feels representative because it takes an honest look at how adolescence is truly complex and difficult. Alongside its humorous and romantic journey, the film creates an extraordinary balance between social commentary and comedy.
10 Things I Hate About You’s timelessness also stems from its unique blend of 90s alt-rock and pop-soul music. It evokes a lasting appeal and reflects characters’ aesthetics and emotions perfectly. The soundtrack’s indie rock songs representative of Kat, paired with Patrick’s unexpected ballads, capture the film’s spirit – encouraging its continued resonance with audiences today. An exceptionally unforgettable moment in the film is Heath Ledger’s enrapturing performance of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” which he uses to ask Kat to prom.
Patrick’s serenade of Kat is a pivotal moment in the film, but also a socially impactful moment for audiences of the time. By connecting a 60s song about sincere, untethered love to a 90s teen movie, the filmmakers bridged generations, as the scene is talked about over 20 years later. The song’s presence within the film connected timeless ideas of love and vulnerability with modern audiences. The bold and cinematic gesture is viewed not as a superficial scene, but as a standard for how love should be represented: honestly, vulnerably, and without restraint. One can go as far as to even say that moment reimagined masculinity. Patrick Verona, a “bad-boy” archetype, carrying out an emotional and silly public gesture of love, challenges the stereotype that men have to remain tough and emotionless. The scene not only makes emotional honesty more acceptable, but even attractive.
Although some misinterpret the scene as Patrick humiliating or publicly shaming Kat, it’s actually the opposite. That moment strengthened the film’s feminist tone by portraying romance as something rooted in mutual respect rather than control. Patrick was by no means humiliating Kat; he was showing her that she deserved to be adored. This focal point of the film continues to be referenced and recreated in countless films and shows since, solidifying its profound effect on the expression and acceptance of love.
In the end, 10 Things I Hate About You remains a standout movie in the teen romcom genre because of its masterful blending of romance, social commentary, and timeless style. From its vibrant 90s aesthetic to its rich visuals and iconic performances, the film continues to resonate with both new and returning audiences. More than just a love story, it captures the complexities of adolescence, challenges stereotypes, and reminds viewers that vulnerability and honesty in relationships are always worth celebrating. Nearly 25 years later, now streaming on Netflix, this classic proves that some movies don’t just survive the test of time – they thrive through it, inspiring laughter, nostalgia, and heartwarming adoration for generations to come.
