Despite initial skepticism and a low Rotten Tomatoes score, Amazon Prime's Legally Blonde prequel series Elle has won over critics and audiences alike, with many calling for an immediate second season. The show, which follows a 16-year-old Elle Woods as she navigates a move from Los Angeles to Seattle, premiered to a 58% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes but has since garnered a passionate fanbase.
Surprising Success Amid Reboot Fatigue
Senior TV Reporter Asyia Iftikhar admitted to rolling her eyes upon hearing about the prequel, citing a general weariness with IP reboots. However, after watching, she declared, "Elle Woods has done it again, despite the stacked odds." The series follows Elle after her father performs a botched nose job, forcing the family to relocate to dreary Seattle, where her bright-pink persona clashes with the local plaid and grey tones.
Iftikhar praised lead actress Lexi Minetee, calling her casting "a stroke of genius." Minetee not only resembles a young Reese Witherspoon but also nails Elle's mannerisms, cadence, and gait. The show's ensemble cast, including Jacob Moskovitz as track runner Miles, Zac Looker as activist Dustin, Gabriella Policano as rocker lesbian Liz, and Chandler Kinney as senior Kimberly, also received acclaim.
Fresh Take on Iconic Character
While some critics note that the prequel retreads character growth from the movies, Iftikhar argues that Elle focuses on finding inner confidence rather than proving oneself to others. "In Elle, it's about finding that inner confidence in the first place," she wrote, citing a scene where Elle shows up to a pool party dressed wrong and decides to own it. This sets up the iconic Legally Blonde scene where she arrives at a party in fancy dress and makes it work.
The show also commits to meaningful LGBTQ+ representation, featuring a sapphic romance without trauma. Iftikhar noted the chemistry between Elle and Liz and expressed openness to a bi awakening in season two. "The representation doesn't feel clunkily executed or forced but is a natural part of its makeup," she said.
Cliffhanger Ending and Renewed Hope
Amazon renewed Elle for a second season ahead of time in January, a move Iftikhar called "backing the show where many haven't." The season one finale ends on a juicy cliffhanger, leaving fans eager for more. "Even just revisiting these characters would be enough for me; there's enough originality about the whole show to make it a compelling series in its own right," Iftikhar concluded. Elle is available to stream on Amazon Prime now.
