The latest addition to Amazon Prime Video’s library, ‘Elle’, claims to be a prequel series to the beloved 2001 novel and film ‘Legally Blonde’. But, in reality, this eight-episode show plays out more like a remake rather than a bold new take on the original story. The show takes us back to 1995, a time when the bubbly and pink-obsessed Elle Woods, the protagonist of the story, was still on her journey to becoming a lawyer.
While ‘Elle’ offers some fresh perspectives on the character’s early life, it fails to capture the same spark and charm that made the original ‘Legally Blonde’ movie a hit. The show’s creators have made a concerted effort to stay true to the spirit of the original, but in doing so, they’ve ended up with a series that feels more like a rehashing of familiar themes and plot points.
The Problem with Prequels
One of the biggest challenges with prequels is that they often struggle to live up to the expectations created by the original story. In the case of ‘Elle’, the show’s creators have a tough act to follow, given the enduring popularity of ‘Legally Blonde’. But instead of trying to outdo the original, perhaps they should have focused on telling a new and original story that explores the character’s life in a fresh and exciting way.
That being said, ‘Elle’ does have some redeeming qualities. The show’s cast, led by actress Stacey Abrams, brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to their roles, and the show’s production values are top-notch. The cinematography is sleek and stylish, and the costumes are a delight to behold. But despite these strengths, the show ultimately feels like a missed opportunity.
A Lack of Originality
One of the biggest problems with ‘Elle’ is that it lacks originality. The show’s plot is predictable and formulaic, and it relies too heavily on familiar tropes and cliches. The character of Elle Woods is well-developed and relatable, but the supporting cast is underdeveloped and feels like cardboard cutouts.
Additionally, the show’s themes of feminism and empowerment, while timely and relevant, feel like they’re being shoehorned in rather than organically emerging from the story. This gives the show a feeling of being heavy-handed and didactic, rather than subtle and nuanced.
What’s Next for ‘Elle’?
Despite its flaws, ‘Elle’ has the potential to be a compelling and engaging watch. But to achieve this, the show’s creators need to take a step back and reassess their approach. They need to find a way to balance their desire to stay true to the original story with the need to innovate and take risks. By doing so, they can create a prequel series that truly lives up to the legacy of ‘Legally Blonde’.
As it stands, ‘Elle’ feels like a missed opportunity. But with a bit of tweaking and a willingness to take risks, this show could be something truly special. For now, however, it’s a rehashing of familiar themes and plot points that fails to capture the spark and charm of the original.