If you have seen the movie 10 Things I Hate About You, then you certainly remember the scene shown in the video clip below. If you have never seen the movie, then that is a problem as well, and it must be addressed. But some other time, not now. This teenage romcom (romantic comedy) has an all-star filled cast that includes Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon Levitt, and Larisa Oleynik. A modern day take on Shakespeare’s “Taming of the Shrew”, this movie was released on March 31, 1999.
In order for Cameron (Gordon Levitt) to take the girl of his dreams, Bianca (Oleynik), to prom, he must first find a date for Bianca’s older sister, Kat (Stiles). While Bianca is at first wanting to go prom with a popular senior, she soon gives in to the sweet ways of Camerson. Older sister Kat is not popular among her peers, so guys aren’t exactly lining up to take her to prom. This is where Patrick (Ledger) comes into the picture. The bad boy rebel/delinquent becomes the chosen one to take Kat to prom. Patrick accepts the challenge, with some monetary persuasion. As expected in a romcom movie, he begins to have true feelings for her. In the above scene, Patrick follows Kat to a guitar store and then a book store, hoping to connect with her on her level. I could say more about the film, but I wouldn’t want to spoil it for you. I will only say this, watch it!
The Song…
The song used in the above clip is titled, “The Weakness in Me”, is sung by Joan Armatrading. Originally released in 1981, on the album Walk Under Ladders, the song was added to the soundtrack of 10 Things I Hate About You. Armatrading was born on the Caribbean Island of Saint Kitts and raised in Birmingham, England. Both a singer and songwriter, she has had commercial success in the UK more-so than in the US. She is viewed as a pop artist, but there are elements of soul, blues, jazz, and folk in her songs. No doubt in part to the success of the movie, The Weakness In Me got new life in the US during 1999. A haunting and melodic song about a person who is torn between loving two people, this song has also been covered by Melissa Etheridge and Keisha White.
The below video not only features the entire song, but also includes photos of Ms. Armatrading herself. Watch both music videos and then make sure you go see the film. For more information on the artist, visit www.joanarmatrading.com.