10 Things I Hate About You (1999) is a beloved teen romantic comedy directed by Gil Junger. A modern adaptation of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, the film reimagines the classic play in a high school setting, blending witty humor, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable characters.

The story follows Cameron James (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt), a new student at Padua High who falls for Bianca Stratford (Larisa Oleynik), a popular and sweet girl. However, Bianca’s overprotective father has a strict rule: she can’t date until her older sister, the sharp-tongued and fiercely independent Kat Stratford (played by Julia Stiles), does.

To solve this dilemma, Cameron enlists the help of Patrick Verona (Heath Ledger), the school’s mysterious bad boy, to woo Kat. Despite initial resistance, Kat and Patrick’s dynamic evolves into a genuine and tender romance, marked by iconic moments like Heath Ledger’s charming musical performance of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.”

The film explores themes of individuality, self-discovery, and love with a fresh, comedic twist, anchored by stellar performances from the cast. Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger’s chemistry is electric, and the film’s memorable dialogue and heartfelt moments have cemented its status as a teen classic.