Forgotten cult classic teen romance 'one of the best ever'

The beloved film 10 Things I Hate About You, which launched the careers of several high-profile actors, continues to be hailed as an "all-time favourite " by fans even decades after its release.

Based on Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew, this classic coming-of-age story unfolds in a 1990s American high school setting. It features Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger as teenagers entangled in a quintessential enemies-to-lovers narrative.

The late, great Australian actor Heath Ledger's performance in the film cemented his status as a Hollywood heartthrob. Ledger sadly passed away in 2008, but this film remains one of his most celebrated works that fans continue to revisit.

One Rotten Tomatoes reviewer praised the film, saying: "It's the perfect blend of wit, charm, and heart, all wrapped up in a late '90s high school setting that still holds up today," They further added: "The casting is absolutely chef's kiss - Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt... every single performance is on point!".

"Whether it's the iconic bleacher serenade or Kat's emotional poem, this movie nails the balance between comedy and sincerity. Timeless, rewatchable, and just plain brilliant.", reports Surrey Live.

Julia Stiles' character, Kat Stratford, is a sharp-witted and intelligent girl with strong views and an intimidating aura that often deters her peers, including boys. Her sister Bianca, however, embodies the ideal all-American girl, but their father's strict house rules prevent her from dating.

At school, Kat encounters the charismatic and attractive newcomer, Patrick Verona. Initially, she wants nothing to do with him, but as the story unfolds, the seemingly aloof teenager lets her guard down and falls for the effortlessly suave Patrick in a timeless love story.

The film '10 Things I Hate About You' gave birth to some of the most memorable scenes in cinema history, still referenced in today's pop culture. One such iconic moment is Patrick's grand romantic gesture, where Heath Ledger serenades Kat with 'Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You' from the school bleachers, accompanied by a live brass band, instantly winning over audiences.

One viewer said: "Fun, funny and light define this film. Heath Ledger steals the show whenever he appears with his charisma, and all the characters work very well comedically and romantically speaking."

Another fan added: "A great 1990s movie with the much-missed Heath Ledger, who shone in everything he acted in. Much fun to be had here with a stellar cast and a brilliant soundtrack."

Debuting in 1999, '10 Things I Hate About You' was met with widespread acclaim, raking in $21 million within the first five days of release and securing second place at the box office that weekend, trailing only 'The Matrix'. Julia Stiles was a mere 17 years old at the time, while co-star Heath Ledger was just 19 when filming commenced.

Yet, their on-screen chemistry was palpable and undeniable.

Another fan said: "An intelligent tongue-in-cheek script, a cast with nothing but chemistry, and a great soundtrack still pale in comparison to the way Ledger steals almost every scene in a 90s teen classic that earns its reputation with its madcap humour and charm."

For those yearning for a dose of 90s nostalgia, 10 Things I Hate About You is available to stream on Disney+ now.