No Consensus On This Shakespearean Tale Remake

Mon., April 19, 1999

Joel Constable, Lewis & Clark T

HE SAW

Quite frankly, from watching the previews of “10 Things I Hate About You,” I did not expect a good movie. But what initially looked like a stupid, low-budget teenage flick turned out to be a wonderful low-budget teenage flick.

Set in our across-the-state neighbor, Seattle, this film uses clever writing and great stereotypes (yes, there is such a thing) to make for a very funny movie.

When Ms. Popular, Bianca, discovers the only way her father will allow her to date is if her individualistic, introverted sister will date, too, there begins a wild chain of events that ultimately leads to a great ending.

Nowadays, it seems impossible to find funny movies about teenagers, but “10 Things I Hate About You” breaks the trend.

Filled with outstanding acting, a clever script and a fantastic story line, this movie is well worth the cost of admission.

Grade: A

SHE SAW

Since Leonardo became Romeo, those dreaded English class requirements have become the hottest scripts in Hollywood. “10 Things I Hate About You” carries on the trend.

It’s a cute story and that’s all. It’s incredibly predictable with several unnecessary, and unwanted, scenes.

On the plus side, it is well-acted and has Seattle for a background.

“10 Things I Hate About You” does what other teen remakes haven’t: It pays homage to its creator. Still, it’s not a movie the Bard would approve of.

Producers need to stop messing with classic works. They are classics because they were fine the way they were.

But if they don’t, I suggest Hamlet. I’d like to see Hamlet and Claudius having it out on Jerry Springer under the title: “MY UNCLE MARRIED MY MOM!”

Grade: B-

Theresa Carpine, Ferris

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