Fans of early 2000s cinema and the enduring appeal of Elle Woods can look forward to a new chapter in the 'Legally Blonde' universe with the prequel series 'Elle', set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video from July 1. The show aims to capture the essence of the original film, which saw Reese Witherspoon's character become a box office sensation, while exploring the formative years of the pink-obsessed Californian before her legal career.
Lexi Minetree takes on the role of a young Elle, reportedly embodying Witherspoon's mannerisms with uncanny accuracy. The series opens with Elle celebrating her 'sweet sixteen' in the early noughties, with grand plans for high school and her first kiss. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when her plastic surgeon father's botched celebrity nose job forces the family to relocate and go into hiding, away from their glamorous Los Angeles life.
This abrupt change of scenery transports Elle from the candy-pink aesthetic of LA to what is portrayed as the grunge capital of the world, Seattle. The show humorously depicts Seattle's residents with a penchant for flannel shirts and indie music, initially clashing with Elle's vibrant style. Despite some criticisms regarding clumsy stereotyping, the series is noted for successfully reinterpreting the 'fish out of water' trope for a modern audience.
The contemporary iteration of Elle is presented as a proud ally to the LGBTQ+ community and an advocate for underpaid teaching staff, while still maintaining her love for 'Cosmo' magazine, unwavering positivity, and hot pink lipstick. The eight-episode run allows for a deeper exploration of Elle's character, portraying her as well-meaning but flawed, often leaving a trail of minor disasters as she attempts to adapt to her new environment. The show's gentle humour, often delivered through Elle's accidentally hilarious mother, played by June Diane Raphael, helps to balance some of the more overtly mean-spirited characters.
The series appears to strike a delicate balance between millennial nostalgia and contemporary relevance, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved character. While there are no hotshot lawyers in this early chapter of Elle's life, the show promises an arresting watch for those seeking a dose of optimism and the familiar charm of the 'Legally Blonde' world, even if it's set in simpler times where shared love for Chanel could bridge divides. The involvement of Reese Witherspoon in the franchise's resurrection underscores its cultural significance.
Source: NME