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What 1999 movie was based on Taming of the Shrew?

Published in Shakespearean Adaptation 2 mins read

The 1999 movie based on William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew was 10 Things I Hate About You.

An Iconic Modern Adaptation

10 Things I Hate About You, released in 1999, is a highly popular teen romantic comedy that cleverly reimagines William Shakespeare's classic play, The Taming of the Shrew, for a contemporary high school audience. The film takes the core themes of the original play—such as societal expectations, rebellion, and unconventional romance—and sets them in Padua High School.

The plot revolves around the Stratford sisters: the sharp-tongued, independent Kat (Katarina), and her popular younger sister, Bianca. Bianca is not allowed to date until Kat does, leading to a scheme where new student Cameron attempts to get the rebellious Patrick Verona to date Kat, so he can then pursue Bianca.

Key Details from 10 Things I Hate About You

The movie is known for its witty script, memorable performances, and successful modernization of Shakespearean character archetypes.

  • Directed by: Gil Junger
  • Produced by: Andrew Lazar
  • Starring:
    • Julia Stiles as Kat Stratford
    • Heath Ledger as Patrick Verona
    • Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Cameron James
    • Larisa Oleynik as Bianca Stratford
    • Larry Miller as Walter Stratford

Movie Information at a Glance

For a quick overview of this beloved film:

Aspect Detail
Title 10 Things I Hate About You
Release Year 1999
Based On The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare
Genre Teen Romantic Comedy
Main Cast Julia Stiles, Heath Ledger, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Oleynik

10 Things I Hate About You stands out as a prime example of a successful literary adaptation that resonated deeply with its target audience, becoming a cultural touchstone of the late 1990s.