Let's dive into the world of 'Elle,' Amazon's latest attempt at a 'Legally Blonde' prequel, and explore why it's a fascinating yet perplexing endeavor.
The Premise Paradox
'Elle' presents an intriguing narrative dilemma. If we view Elle Woods as a standalone character, the prequel's plot twist about her teenage years in Seattle feels like a narrative misstep. It's a jarring inconsistency that challenges the logic of her journey in the original film. However, if we adopt a franchise mindset, seeing Elle as a rebootable IP, the show's premise makes business sense, even if the creative execution leaves room for improvement.
A New Elle, An Old Story
The series introduces us to Elle as a high schooler in 1995, drawing parallels with Cher Horowitz from 'Clueless.' She's a privileged LA princess with a plan for social dominance. But her world turns upside down when her family moves to Seattle. Here, her bubbly personality and fashion sense become liabilities. The show's portrayal of Seattle as a homogeneous grunge haven is both stereotypical and tongue-in-cheek, which might amuse some but will likely raise eyebrows among those familiar with the city's diverse reality.
Flat Setting, Unclear Message
The show's setting is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it's meant to be a haven for individualistic rebels. On the other, it's portrayed as a place where everyone marches to the same punk beat. This contradiction leaves Elle feeling out of place and, ironically, conforming to a different kind of norm. It's an awkward message that hints at a defensive stance about white feminine privilege, though the narrative does soften this edge as characters develop.
Elle's Journey and the Cast
Elle's journey, from an outsider to a social justice warrior, is engaging, especially with Lexi Minetree's uncanny resemblance to Reese Witherspoon and her spot-on performance. Minetree's Elle is technically impressive and emotionally relatable, making you wish she had more room to make the role her own. The supporting cast, including Tom Everett Scott and June Diane Raphael, adds depth and humor to the show. Characters like Dustin (Zac Looker) and Liz (Gabrielle Policano) bring a unique charm, while others, like Miles, feel more like plot devices than fully realized individuals.
The 'Legally Blonde' Legacy
The show's references to the 'Legally Blonde' franchise are a mixed bag. Some, like the appearance of Bruiser the chihuahua, are delightful nods to fans. Others, like the lawyer suggestion, feel forced and groan-worthy. It's clear that 'Elle' is trying to capitalize on the franchise's popularity, but it struggles to find its own identity, caught between what it wants to be and what it could potentially achieve.
In conclusion, 'Elle' is an interesting experiment that showcases the challenges of expanding a beloved franchise. While it has its charming moments and a talented cast, it also raises questions about the limits of the 'Legally Blonde' concept and the risks of straying too far from the original narrative. Personally, I think it's a brave attempt, but one that could have benefited from a clearer vision and a more authentic portrayal of its setting.
