Universal Pictures released a second adaptation of Scott Spencer’s 1979 novel, Endless Love, on Valentine’s Day in 2014. The earlier film version from 1981 earned six nominations for the Golden Raspberry Awards, suggesting that Spencer's book wasn't easily translated to the screen initially. The 2014 movie centers on Jade (Gabriella Wilde), a seventeen-year-old who reflects with some disappointment upon graduating high school and missing out on a social life while looking forward to an academic scholarship. David (Alex Pettyfer), a classmate, had been in love with Jade throughout their schooling but never acted on his feelings. A casual encounter sparks a passionate romance between them, which Jade’s father (Bruce Greenwood) opposes, believing David is a negative influence. Time is crucial when making movies, particularly when establishing the setting. Background information needs to be presented and developed so that viewers understand why characters make certain decisions. _Endless Love_ skips this process entirely, beginning on Graduation Day with two characters who haven’t previously interacted and immediately falling in love. Jade, who seems to have very few friends—implying her classmates don't know much about her—is idealized by David, seemingly because of her appearance. A small amount of attention from him is enough for Jade to abandon the goals her father has pushed her toward. When Jade’s father expresses his disapproval, driven by projecting expectations he had for a deceased brother onto Jade, she becomes a tool in the conflict between them and David. While Jade's mother appears more accepting of the relationship, her perspective is diminished when it’s revealed that her husband is having an affair (a plot point intended to increase tension between David and Jade’s father but ultimately forgotten). The performances are adequate, though there’s not much hope for improvement with such a poorly written script. _Endless Love_ represents a particularly harmful kind of movie. Presenting itself as a young woman choosing independence from an oppressive father is deceptive, irresponsible, and damaging to the intended audience. There's no plot, no backstory, no character development, nothing of substance. It’s misogynistic, superficial, and demeaning. Avoid this film.

Source on TMDB