Twenty-six years ago today, on March 31, 1999, 10 Things I Hate About You hit theaters, delivering a fresh, modern twist on William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. Starring Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger in breakout roles, the teen romantic comedy charmed audiences with its sharp wit, ’90s flair, and a soundtrack that defined a generation, cementing its status as a beloved classic.
You can find 10 Things I Hate About You on Amazon HERE.
Directed by Gil Junger and written by Karen McCullah Lutz and Kirsten Smith, the film reimagined Shakespeare’s tale of courtship and control as a high school romance set in Seattle. Stiles played Kat Stratford, a fiercely independent senior, opposite Ledger’s Patrick Verona, a brooding Aussie bad boy paid to woo her so her younger sister, Bianca (Larisa Oleynik), could date. The ensemble, including Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Gabrielle Union, brought the Bard’s themes of love, rebellion, and transformation to life with a late-’90s edge—think Doc Martens, Letters to Cleo, and a prom scene that still sparks nostalgia.
Released by Touchstone Pictures, the movie grossed over $60 million worldwide on a $13 million budget, fueled by word-of-mouth buzz and a soundtrack featuring hits like “I Want You to Want Me.” Ledger’s iconic bleachers serenade of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” became a cultural touchstone, showcasing the then-19-year-old’s star power before his Oscar-winning career.
In 1999, the film arrived amid a teen movie boom—think She’s All That and Cruel Intentions—but its Shakespearean roots and heartfelt humor set it apart. It earned a cult following, inspiring a short-lived 2009 TV series and endless rewatches.
The film’s release 26 years ago marked a moment when Hollywood bet big on youth, blending literary homage with pop culture savvy. “It’s the rare teen flick that’s aged gracefully,” Lopez noted, “a love letter to the ’90s and Shakespeare alike.” For fans, March 31, 1999, remains the day Kat and Patrick proved even the prickliest hearts could find harmony.
You can find 10 Things I Hate About You on Amazon HERE.
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