Class is back in session! Twenty-six years after the original 10 Things I Hate About You became a defining teen rom-com of the late ’90s, the beloved story returns with a fresh, modern twist in 10 Things I Hate About You: A Modern Remix.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Olivia Wilde (Booksmart, Don’t Worry Darling), this reimagining of the high school classic brings the wit and charm of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew into the digital age. With a sharp script, a vibrant cast, and a contemporary take on love, identity, and self-discovery, the film promises to captivate both fans of the original and a new generation of viewers.
The Story
Set in a modern-day high school, 10 Things I Hate About You: A Modern Remix follows Kat Stratford, a fiercely independent and outspoken senior who has no time for romance, and Patrick Verona, a charming rebel with a mysterious past. When Kat’s younger sister, Bianca, is forbidden from dating until Kat does, a scheme is hatched to pair Kat with Patrick. What begins as a reluctant partnership soon turns into a fiery, love-hate relationship that challenges both characters to confront their true selves.
The film updates the original’s themes for today’s world, exploring the pressures of social media, the complexities of modern relationships, and the importance of staying true to oneself. While the story retains its humor and heart, it also delves deeper into the characters’ personal struggles, making it a more layered and relatable experience.
The Cast
The film stars Emmy nominee Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria, The White Lotus) as Kat Stratford, bringing a bold and nuanced energy to the iconic role originally played by Julia Stiles. Opposite her is breakout star Jacob Elordi (Euphoria, The Kissing Booth) as Patrick Verona, whose charm and edge make him the perfect modern-day bad boy.
Rounding out the cast is Jenna Ortega (Wednesday, Scream) as Bianca Stratford, Kat’s bubbly and ambitious younger sister, and Noah Centineo (To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before) as Cameron James, the lovestruck new kid who falls for Bianca. The film also features Justice Smith (Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves) as Michael, Cameron’s quirky best friend, and Maya Hawke (Stranger Things) as Mandella, Kat’s loyal and equally independent best friend.
The Vision
Director Olivia Wilde brings her signature style to the film, blending sharp humor with heartfelt moments and a vibrant visual aesthetic. “The original 10 Things I Hate About You was such a cultural touchstone,” Wilde says. “We wanted to honor its legacy while giving it a fresh perspective that speaks to today’s audience. It’s about love, yes, but it’s also about finding your voice and learning to embrace who you are.”
The screenplay, written by Katie Silberman (Booksmart, Set It Up), updates the dialogue with witty, fast-paced banter while staying true to the spirit of Shakespeare’s original play. The film’s cinematography, helmed by Autumn Durald Arkapaw (Loki, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever), captures the energy and vibrancy of high school life, with colorful locker-lined hallways, sunlit football fields, and moody nighttime parties.
Nostalgia Meets Modernity
Fans of the 1999 film will be delighted by the nods to the original, from a reimagined version of Patrick’s iconic serenade scene to subtle Easter eggs like a flyer for a school prom and a guitar case in the background. At the same time, the film embraces its modern setting, incorporating text messages, social media, and contemporary music to reflect the lives of today’s teens.
The soundtrack, curated by Grammy-winning producer Jack Antonoff, features a mix of nostalgic ’90s hits and fresh tracks from today’s biggest artists, creating a perfect blend of old and new.
Why It Matters
10 Things I Hate About You: A Modern Remix isn’t just a retelling of a classic story—it’s a celebration of individuality, resilience, and the messy, beautiful journey of growing up. With its dynamic cast, sharp writing, and heartfelt storytelling, the film is poised to become a new favorite for audiences of all ages.
10 Things I Hate About You: A Modern Remix hits theaters on May 9, 2025. Get ready to fall in love, laugh, and maybe even cry as this timeless tale gets a fresh new chapter.
