If you haven't seen "10 Things I Hate About You," you are truly missing out on a great piece of culture. This movie not only embodies the late '90s perfectly but shows a beautiful, modern romance. Here are ten reasons to love "10 Things I Hate About You."
1. Shakespeare, duh!
This modern take on a classic Shakespearean comedy brings classic literature back to life. There are pieces of the original play interlaced in the movie.
2. Feminism
Need I say more? This movie basically augmented the modern feminist movement. Having Kat as such a strong-willed and proud character showed girls that they are worthy and should be treated as an equal to a male.
3. Realistic relationships
While character Bianca often searches for the superficial "pretty boy" type of relationship (even though she isn't allowed to date). Meanwhile, her sister Kat is not searching for any realtionship because she sees the superficiality of high school boys. She has been through the fire with some of the guys and is made aware of her own power as an individual. When Kat and Patrick do end up going out, it is solely out of love. Initially, Kat is confused as to why any guy would go for her, but she soon realizes that she is still desirable. This principle will soon be instilled in her little sister leaving Kat as the number one sister ever.
4. Overcome your circumstances
Kat teaches us a very important lesson. That we do not have to compromise ourselves and our own desires to fit into a societal mold. We are also shown that individuality is super important.
5. '90s fashion is ruling the world
This era of style was full of chunky flip flops and boho skirts. Also, can we mention the intense use of cardigans in this movie? Part of what makes this movie so great is how raw and accurate the fashion choices are.
6. Heath Ledger
We all know this heartthrob is just a simple representation of beauty and perfection. I'll put it to you this way: Heath Ledger singing is just as magical as you may have imagined. His bad boy persona definitely supports his case for beauty. Also, don't even get me started on that accent.
7. Protective parenting
Bianca and Kat's father is somewhat harsh from the beginning. He has made a rule that the girls cannot date until graduation, but having faith in Kat and her abilities to stay single no matter what, he changes the rule. This way, Bianca can date, but only when Kat does. Mr. Stratford is simply trying to protect the girls from the dangers he sees in his everyday life as a doctor in labor and delivery. Although he comes across as over-protective, he is simply trying to make Bianca as strong - willed as Kat so that she doesn't end up getting hurt.
8. Avoid the "Joeys"
This movie teaches us that there are good guys out there. You do not need the superficial pretty boy. He may seem to be willing to do anything or pay anyone so that he can be with you, but his intentions are not where they should be. There is no benefit to dating a model if he just wants to pay you to go out with him.
9. What's popular isn't always right
This principle is displayed on the wall of the English classroom which could be overlooked, but it is also a theme of the movie. You don't have to settle for a guy, friends, or popularity.
10. The kiss
I'm just going to let this one speak for itself.
All in all, this '90s rom-com taught us how to survive high school, or so it seems. In reality, this movie taught us to never forget who we are and our internal power.
