‘10 things I hate about you’ is a movie by Gil Junger. The Stratford sisters- Katarina (A.K.A. Kat) is a feminist and intelligent, while Bianca, is superficial. Bianca feels the need to date to be part of the socialites; however, her father won’t allow her to date. The rule changes to ‘Bianca can date when Kat starts to date.’ This deteriorates Bianca’s situation as Kat is a termagant. In a series of convoluted schemes, Patrick Verona is paid to court Kat. Thus, the story unfolds.
Heath Ledger’s character- Patrick, changes his attitude towards relationships by showing righteous virtues to people he care about. From the start, Patrick’s perceived to be a dangerous, antisocial delinquent. …show more content…
He begins to develop feelings for Kat and feels guilty for tricking her. In the end, he admits his feelings for Kat and portrays honesty. His attitude towards relationships evolved while in the company of supportive friends (Michael and Cameron) and the person he loves.
In the start, Patrick had a negative attitude towards relationships and started to gradually change whilst nearing the end of the film. From a delinquent, he became an individual who cares about the people around him; displaying positive qualities which strengthen and deepen his relationships with others.
Patrick had an undesirable attitude towards relationships. When Cameron wanted to speak to Patrick; a hole was drilled on Cameron’s book. He’s uncooperative towards his peers and isn’t friendly. Patrick accepts Joey’s deal only because of money. He shows no consideration for Kat’s feelings. When Cameron and Michael approach Patrick to reveal the situation:
Michael: “I… uh… I think I speak correctly when I say that Cameron’s love is pure, purer than say, Joey Donner’s.”
Patrick: “Look, I’m in this for the cash.”
This highlights Patrick’s opinion towards relationships; he doesn’t care if it’s pure or not, he wants the money and isn’t considerate.
However, Patrick’s approach to relationships gradually changed towards the end of the film. He showed positive attributes, for example, Patrick is supportive to Cameron in Bogie’s Party:
Patrick: “Cameron, do you like the girl?”
Cameron: “Yeah.”
Patrick: “Yeah, and is she worth all this trouble?”
Cameron: “Well, I thought she was, but you know, I...”
Patrick: “Well, she is or she isn't.
See first of all, Joey is not half the man you are. Secondly, don't let anyone ever make you feel like you don't deserve what you want. Go for it.”
Patrick’s supportive as well as friendly. Patrick didn’t kiss Kat in the car; he felt guilty for being paid and was being considerate and caring; not taking advantage of her while she’s drunk.
Verona changes his opinion on relationships, because he starts to develop a relationship with Kat, appreciating and understanding her and became friends with Cameron and Michael. He wants to be with Kat and demonstrates trust and honesty:
Patrick: “Some asshole paid me to take out this really great girl.”
Kat Stratford: “Is that right?”
Patrick: “Yeah, but I screwed up. I… um… I fell for her.”
Patrick expresses his honest feelings to Kat to gain her trust back.
Another example is when Joey pays Patrick to take Kat to the prom:
Patrick: “You know what, I’m sick of playing your little …show more content…
game.”
Joey: “Okay. Wa-wa-wa-wait. You uhh… sick of let’s say 300.”
With a reluctant face, Patrick takes the money, however, he is starting to change. He didn’t want Joey’s money, because he has genuine feelings for Kat and feels guilty, shameful and embarrassed.
When Cameron said “You embarrassed the girl. Sacrifice yourself on the altar of dignity and even the score.” Patrick conceives a plan by dedicating a song to Kat in front of many people. If he was the same as before, he wouldn’t have lowered his pride. He pays a boy so that the marching band will accompany his singing. He went to great measures to please Kat, because he loves her.
Respect is a factor that contributes to a positive relationship.
In the film, Kat says to her Dad “stop trying to control my life.” She feels as though her father isn’t respecting her. However, when Walter sends a cheque to Kat’s choice of college, it symbolises the respect he has for his daughter and acceptance of her right to make her own decisions. “Trust me to make my own choices.” Kat remarks this towards her father. Trust is another quality you need for a positive relationship. Fun or enjoyment is a factor that adds to an optimistic relationship. The scene where Kat and Patrick play paint ball shows their relationship is
strengthened.
In conclusion, Heath Ledger’s character changes his negative attitude towards relationships, because of his developing relationships with his friends and Kat. He begins to show his positive attributes in the middle of the film, evolving to the end.