Chernov, J. (Producer), & Junger, G. (Director). (1999). 10
Things I Hate About You [Motion
picture]. United States of America: Touchstone Pictures. UPC
786936795271
Plot Summary
10 Things I Hate About You is a modern retelling of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. Cameron is new to Padua, and on his first day of school he becomes enamored with Bianca, who is informed is off-limits due to the facts that she cannot date until her older sister Kat does and she is the object of the suave, popular Joey. Cameron, with his new friend, Michael, devise a plan to get the new bad boy of the school, Patrick, to approach Joey to get him to pay to take Kat out, enabling Joey to date Bianca. If that sounds complicated, it is, and it leads to tensions and unexpected alliances. Ultimately, Patrick falls for Kat, but whether he can prove it to her will be difficult in spite of the situation that brought them together.
Critical Evaluation
This is a wonderful retelling of a Shakespeare classic. Bits of dialogue from the Shakespeare are included, and when they seem oddly out of place, a character says as much. The writing is sharp and funny, building on the framework of the classic. The soundtrack is catchy, if not a bit stale eleven years after its release. The acting by all is amazing, rising above that of a typical romantic comedy; this is a role that gained Heath Ledger a lot of recognition. His rendition of "You're Just Too Good to be True" is charming and memorable. Larry Miller's portrayal of a single, over-protective father is comedic and his admission to his daughter Bianca for his motivations is moving. Seeing real, frank emotional conversations like this, blended with songs, Shakespearean dialogue, and physical comedy make for a fun and moving teen movie.
In order to win her heart, Cameron must first find someone to tame her shrew of a sister.
Genre
Romantic comedy
As Cameron, discuss how he is attempting to juggle the relationships of all the principle characters, emphasizing the confusing, convoluted nature of it all through the narration.
Interest Age
Rated PG-13 for crude sex-related humor and dialogue, alcohol and drug-related scenes, all involving teens.
Challenge Issues
Some language, drinking, and smoking are all addressed.
If challenged, I would first suggest being familiar with the work in order to speak about it directly. Then, listen the challenger's complaint, show them to positive reviews, and refer to the collection policy, stating a need to include a variety of works that may not be suitable for all, but should contain something for everyone. As a last resort, turn to the ALA Bill of Rights or First Amendment defense, but try not to let things get there; listen and reassure the patron.
If challenged, I would first suggest being familiar with the work in order to speak about it directly. Then, listen the challenger's complaint, show them to positive reviews, and refer to the collection policy, stating a need to include a variety of works that may not be suitable for all, but should contain something for everyone. As a last resort, turn to the ALA Bill of Rights or First Amendment defense, but try not to let things get there; listen and reassure the patron.
Reason Selected
This is one of my favorite teen movies: a funny adaptation of a Shakespeare classic, and Larry Miller and Heath Ledger shine in a cast that seems to genuinely enjoy their roles.
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