Directed by
Gil Junger
Made by
Buena Vista Pictures
Discover the intricate plot of 10 Things I Hate About You (1999). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
Cameron James, a newcomer at Padua High School in the Seattle area, finds himself instantly captivated by the stunning and popular sophomore, Bianca Stratford](/actor/julia-stiles). However, his friend, the nerdy Michael Eckman, warns him that she might be superficial and self-centered. To complicate matters, Bianca has an overprotective father, Walter, an obstetrician overly concerned about teenage pregnancy, who forbids both Bianca and her intimidating older sister, Kat, a senior, from dating. While Kat receives an acceptance letter from Sarah Lawrence College, Walter wishes for her to remain close to home and enroll at the University of Washington. Bianca, desiring to date the wealthy senior, Joey Donner, has to contend with her father’s new dating restrictions, which state that neither daughter can date until the other does.
Determined to win Bianca’s heart, Cameron learns of the new rule and comes up with a plan to date Kat first. He decides to ask the rebellious Australian “bad boy,” Patrick Verona, to take Kat out, even though Patrick’s demeanor initially intimidates him. With Michael’s help, they convince Joey to pay Patrick to date Kat, which they believe will create a pathway for Joey to then date Bianca. Although Kat is initially resistant to Patrick’s advances, through a series of clever schemes and revelations about her interests, Patrick begins to break through her tough exterior.
At a party where the tension escalates, Kat finds herself feeling vulnerable after witnessing Bianca with Joey, leading her to drink excessively. Patrick tends to her during this emotional time, and she starts sharing her aspirations of forming a band. However, when she attempts to kiss him, he recoils, hurting her feelings. Meanwhile, Bianca begins to see the true nature of Joey and finally recognizes Cameron’s earnest affection for her, resulting in an unexpected kiss that signifies their budding relationship.
Joey, wanting to take Bianca to the prom, tries to manipulate circumstances by persuading Patrick to take Kat, but Kat’s feelings for Patrick become complicated. Despite her anger, Patrick ultimately serenades her with an iconic rendition of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” complete with a marching band, which wins her over. Although their romance appears to blossom, Kat’s suspicions about his intentions grow when he insists she attend prom with him.
Feeling neglected by Cameron, Bianca accepts Joey’s prom invitation. Still, Walter refuses unless Kat agrees to join them. Kat opens up about her past experience with Joey, revealing her regrets, which drives a wedge between the sisters. Ultimately, Kat decides to attend prom with Patrick, and Bianca chooses Cameron over Joey. At prom, Bianca is devastated to learn of Joey’s ulterior motives, which ignites a confrontation where Bianca defends herself and her friends against Joey’s aggression.
The next day, the sisters reconcile, and Bianca embarks on a relationship with Cameron. With newfound confidence in her daughter, Walter grants Kat permission to attend Sarah Lawrence College. During a poignant classroom moment where students present their versions of William Shakespeare’s Sonnet 141, Kat reads her heartfelt poem, “10 Things I Hate About You,” revealing her lingering affection for Patrick. He surprises her with a Fender Stratocaster, purchased with the money Joey provided him, and admits that he has fallen in love with her. Their relationship mends beautifully with a passionate kiss, solidifying their deep connection.
Track the key events of 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Cameron Arrives at Padua High School
Cameron James arrives at Padua High School and is immediately taken by Bianca Stratford's beauty and popularity. However, he quickly learns from his friend Michael that she may not be as genuine as she appears.
Bianca's Dating Restrictions
Walter Stratford, Bianca and Kat's father, imposes strict dating rules, forbidding his daughters from dating until the other does. This establishes a significant obstacle for Bianca, who is eager to date the charming senior, Joey Donner.
Cameron's Plan to Date Kat
Determined to date Bianca, Cameron concocts a plan to first get her sister, Kat, to date. He recruits the rebellious Patrick Verona, hoping that if Patrick dates Kat, Bianca may then be allowed to date.
Negotiating with Joey
With the help of Michael, Cameron convinces Joey to pay Patrick to date Kat, thinking it would create the perfect scheme for both couples. The plan sets into motion a series of events that intertwine the lives of the four teenagers.
Kat's Emotional Vulnerability
At a party, Kat feels vulnerable upon seeing Bianca with Joey, leading her to drink too much. In this emotional moment, Patrick comforts her, and they begin to connect on a deeper level as she shares her dreams of forming a band.
The Heartbreak Moment
When Kat attempts to kiss Patrick, he recoils, inadvertently hurting her. This moment of rejection causes tension between them just as their relationship begins to form.
Bianca's Realization
As Bianca spends time with Joey, she begins to uncover his true, manipulative nature. In a contrasting moment, she recognizes Cameron's genuine affection for her, leading to a surprise kiss that marks the beginning of their relationship.
Prom Plans and Sisterly Conflicts
Joey attempts to manipulate the situation for prom by insisting Patrick take Kat, but this creates further complications in Kat's feelings. Meanwhile, tension brews between the sisters as Kat reveals her past with Joey.
Patrick's Serenade
In a dramatic attempt to win over Kat, Patrick serenades her with 'Can't Take My Eyes Off You,' complete with a marching band. This grand gesture successfully wins her heart, despite her initial reservations about him.
The Prom Night Revelations
Bianca, feeling neglected, accepts Joey's prom invitation, but Walter insists that Kat must attend as well. Tensions arise during prom as Bianca learns of Joey’s ulterior motives, leading to a confrontation.
Sisters’ Reconciliation
After the events at prom, Kat and Bianca reconcile, recognizing the importance of their sisterly bond. Bianca chooses Cameron over Joey, affirming their relationship.
Walter Grants Newfound Freedom
With a change of heart, Walter allows Kat to attend Sarah Lawrence College, reflecting his growth in confidence towards his daughters' independence. This moment symbolizes trust and maturity in their familial relationship.
Kat's Poem Presentation
During a classroom session, Kat presents her poem, '10 Things I Hate About You,' which reveals her lingering feelings for Patrick. This emotional unveiling showcases her vulnerability and affinity for him.
A Special Surprise
Patrick surprises Kat with a Fender Stratocaster, a gesture fueled by his love for her and the money Joey had provided him. His confession of love strengthens their relationship, mending their connection.
A Passionate Reunion
Kat and Patrick seal their rekindled romance with a passionate kiss, symbolizing the resolution of their tumultuous journey. This moment signifies their deep emotional connection and commitment to each other.
Meet the characters that bring 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Cameron James
Cameron is the earnest and determined protagonist who falls in love with Bianca. His character showcases vulnerability and sincerity as he navigates the complexities of teenage romance while trying to win her heart.
Bianca Stratford
Bianca is the popular and attractive sophomore who longs for freedom in her romantic pursuits. As the story unfolds, she matures and learns to appreciate genuine affection over superficial relationships.
Kat Stratford
Kat is the rebellious older sister, known for her strong-willed nature and independence. Throughout the film, she challenges societal norms and discovers her vulnerabilities, ultimately allowing herself to love.
Patrick Verona
Patrick is the charismatic 'bad boy' who captures Kat’s attention. Despite his tough exterior, he reveals a softer side, showing depth and sincerity as he falls for Kat and learns to treat her with respect.
Uncover the settings of 10 Things I Hate About You (1999), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The movie is set in contemporary times, reflecting the social dynamics and challenges faced by teenagers, particularly around dating and parental restrictions. The era captures the spirit of youthful rebellion and the quest for identity that resonates with audiences.
Location
Seattle, Padua High School
Seattle is a vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest, known for its rich culture, technology hub, and iconic landmarks like the Space Needle. Padua High School, a fictional institution, serves as the backdrop for the complicated teenage relationships explored in the film.
Explore the core themes of 10 Things I Hate About You (1999). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Love and Heartbreak
The film intricately weaves tales of young love and heartbreak as characters navigate their feelings and relationships. Cameron and Bianca’s innocent romance contrasts with Kat’s tumultuous connection with Patrick, exploring the complexities of teenage emotions.
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Identity and Rebellion
Identity and rebellion are central themes as the characters struggle against societal expectations and parental control. Kat embodies the fight for self-expression, while Bianca must learn to assert her own desires amid her father's overprotection.
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Sisterhood
The relationship between Kat and Bianca showcases the theme of sisterhood, highlighting both rivalry and support. Their journey towards reconciliation emphasizes the importance of family bonds, even as they navigate their differences and personal growth.
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