10 Things I Hate About You vs. 13 Going on 30

Attribute	10 Things I Hate About You	13 Going on 30
Release Year	1999	2004
Genre	Romantic Comedy	Romantic Comedy
Setting	High School	New York City
Plot	Modern adaptation of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew"	Girl wakes up as a 30-year-old woman after making a wish
Lead Actress	Julia Stiles	Jennifer Garner
Lead Actor	Heath Ledger	Mark Ruffalo

Plot

10 Things I Hate About You is a modern adaptation of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. The story follows Kat Stratford, a strong-willed and independent high school student who is not interested in dating. However, her younger sister Bianca cannot date until Kat does, so their father sets up a plan for Kat to fall in love. In contrast, 13 Going on 30 is a romantic comedy about a 13-year-old girl named Jenna who wishes to be 30 years old and wakes up in her 30-year-old body. She navigates her new adult life while trying to figure out what happened during the 17 years she missed.

Setting

10 Things I Hate About You is set in a high school in Seattle, Washington. The film captures the essence of teenage life in the late 90s, with its grunge music, flannel shirts, and rebellious attitudes. On the other hand, 13 Going on 30 takes place in New York City, showcasing the fast-paced and glamorous world of fashion magazines and high-powered executives. The contrast in settings reflects the different tones of the two films.

Characters

In 10 Things I Hate About You, Kat Stratford is portrayed as a feminist and intellectual who challenges societal norms. Her love interest, Patrick Verona, is a mysterious and rebellious outsider who ultimately wins her heart. On the other hand, 13 Going on 30 focuses on Jenna Rink, a young girl who is thrust into adulthood and must navigate the complexities of relationships and career. Her love interest, Matty Flamhaff, is her childhood best friend who helps her rediscover her true self.

Themes

Both films explore themes of identity, love, and self-discovery. In 10 Things I Hate About You, Kat and Patrick learn to embrace their true selves and break free from societal expectations. Meanwhile, 13 Going on 30 delves into the idea of second chances and the importance of staying true to oneself. Jenna's journey to rediscover her inner child highlights the theme of authenticity and the power of nostalgia.

Humor

10 Things I Hate About You incorporates witty banter and sarcastic humor throughout the film. The characters' sharp tongues and quick wit add a layer of comedy to the romantic storyline. In contrast, 13 Going on 30 relies on physical comedy and situational humor to entertain the audience. Jenna's awkward encounters and fish-out-of-water moments provide comedic relief in the midst of her personal struggles.

Soundtrack

Both films feature iconic soundtracks that enhance the overall viewing experience. 10 Things I Hate About You includes songs from popular 90s bands like Letters to Cleo and Save Ferris, capturing the rebellious spirit of the characters. On the other hand, 13 Going on 30 incorporates hits from the 80s like "Thriller" by Michael Jackson and "Love is a Battlefield" by Pat Benatar, adding a nostalgic touch to Jenna's journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 10 Things I Hate About You and 13 Going on 30 are two beloved romantic comedies that offer unique perspectives on love, identity, and self-discovery. While 10 Things I Hate About You explores the complexities of teenage relationships and societal expectations, 13 Going on 30 delves into the challenges of adulthood and the importance of staying true to oneself. Both films have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.