The Art of Staying True: What ‘Elle’ Teaches Us About Identity and Growth
There’s something deeply comforting about a show that doesn’t force its protagonist to change who they are to fit in. Elle, Prime Video’s coming-of-age series, does exactly that—and it’s a breath of fresh air. Personally, I think what makes this particularly fascinating is how the show navigates the tension between growth and authenticity. Elle, played by Lexi Minetree, doesn’t lose herself in the process of finding her place in Seattle. Instead, she embraces her quirks, her pink flannel, and her space buns, all while absorbing the culture around her. It’s a delicate balance, and one that many shows stumble over.
The Homecoming That’s More Than Just a Party
The Season 1 finale, set during the Winter (In)Formal, is more than just a high school dance. It’s a homecoming in the truest sense. Elle returns to Seattle not just physically, but emotionally, after a brief escape to Los Angeles. What many people don’t realize is that this moment isn’t just about her supporting her friend Liz or navigating her love triangle with Dustin and Miles. It’s about her realizing that running away from problems isn’t the answer. This raises a deeper question: How often do we, like Elle, try to escape our challenges instead of facing them? The show doesn’t shy away from this complexity, and that’s what makes it resonate.
Mother-Daughter Dynamics: A Mirror to Real Life
One thing that immediately stands out is the relationship between Elle and her mother, Eva (June Diane Raphael). It’s not just a side plot; it’s a mirror to the struggles of real women, particularly those in their 40s who’ve dedicated their lives to family and suddenly find themselves asking, “What’s next?” Eva’s journey parallels Elle’s, and that’s no accident. Showrunner Laura Kittrell and the team clearly understand that coming-of-age isn’t just for teenagers. From my perspective, this duality is what elevates Elle from a typical teen drama to something more universal.
The Power of Staying True to Yourself
What this really suggests is that authenticity is a superpower. Elle’s refusal to conform—whether it’s her fashion choices or her instincts—is a subtle but powerful message. Lauren Neustadter, Hello Sunshine’s President of Film and TV, calls it a “love letter to teens,” and I couldn’t agree more. In a world that constantly pressures us to fit in, Elle reminds us that standing out is okay. A detail that I find especially interesting is how Liz, Elle’s friend, embodies this same spirit. Their relationship isn’t just about friendship; it’s about mutual inspiration.
The Lives We Don’t See Onscreen
Something that I love about Elle is how it acknowledges that characters have lives outside of the protagonist’s story. Liz and Kimberly’s (Chandler Kinney) secret love connection is a perfect example. It’s not just a plot twist; it’s a reminder that everyone has their own narrative, even when they’re not the focus. This approach makes the world of Elle feel more lived-in, more real. If you take a step back and think about it, this is a rare quality in TV shows, especially those aimed at younger audiences.
The Parents: Real People, Real Problems
Eva and Wyatt’s (Tom Everett Scott) relationship is another standout element. Their struggles feel genuine, not just manufactured drama. Kittrell’s comparison to Gilmore Girls is spot-on—there’s a warmth and relatability to their dynamic that’s hard to ignore. What many people don’t realize is that shows like Elle have the potential to bring generations together, just like Gilmore Girls did. The fact that Wyatt’s musical moment in Episode 3 (yes, that Wonderwall performance) adds another layer to his character is just icing on the cake.
Looking Ahead: What Season 2 Might Hold
While the cliffhangers of Season 1 are tantalizing, it’s the promise of Season 2 that has me hooked. The exploration of Liz and Kimberly’s relationship, the continued growth of Elle and Eva, and the unresolved tension between Wyatt and Eva—it’s all fertile ground for storytelling. Personally, I’m most excited to see how Elle continues to navigate her identity without losing the “core of who she is,” as Kittrell puts it.
Final Thoughts: Why Elle Matters
In my opinion, Elle isn’t just a show about a teenager finding her place in the world. It’s a reflection on what it means to grow without losing yourself. It’s a celebration of authenticity, family, and the messy beauty of life. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it manages to be both deeply personal and universally relatable. If you take a step back and think about it, that’s the mark of truly great storytelling.
So, here’s my takeaway: Elle is more than just a series—it’s a reminder that it’s okay to be yourself, even when the world feels like it’s pushing you to be someone else. And in a media landscape often dominated by conformity, that’s a message worth celebrating.
