I think we all have that one film which we gravitate towards in times of anxiety and stress. As a film student, I am burdened with a sense of shame when it comes to enjoying “bad” films. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) is in no way a bad film, but it’s definitely no Citizen Kane (1941). Today, I reject shame. Whenever I feel overwhelmed by the world, when everything feels too big and scary, when my brain thinks too fast that my body can’t breathe, 10 Things I Hate About You wraps me up in a blanket, kisses me on the forehead, and tells me that everything is going to be okay. I have seen this film so many times that it feels familiar. Kat, Patrick, Cameron (*heart eyes* for baby Joseph Gordon-Levitt), and Bianca feel like old friends. I find it hard to explain my devoted affection towards this film because it is my childhood cure for all ailments. 10 Things I Hate About You is like my chicken noodle soup. It heals me. From heartbreak to exam stress, to living through a global pandemic, 10 Things I Hate About You has always been there for me. It is my favourite film and I feel no shame.

-Francesca Sylph

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