The Art of Staying True: What ‘Elle’ Teaches Us About Identity and Belonging
There’s something undeniably captivating about a character who refuses to lose themselves in the process of finding their place in the world. That’s exactly what makes Prime Video’s Elle such a refreshing watch. Personally, I think the show’s Season 1 finale isn’t just a wrap-up of plotlines—it’s a masterclass in how to grow without sacrificing the core of who you are. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Elle, played by Lexi Minetree, navigates her new life in Seattle while holding onto her essence, even as she embraces change.
The Homecoming That’s More Than Just a Party
The Winter (In)Formal isn’t just a high school dance; it’s a symbolic homecoming for Elle. After a brief escape to Los Angeles, she realizes Seattle is where she belongs. But here’s the kicker: her return isn’t about fitting in—it’s about finding her own way to belong. The kiss with Dustin, the love triangle drama, and Miles’ heartbreak are all secondary to Elle’s internal journey. What many people don’t realize is that these moments aren’t just teen drama; they’re reflections of her evolving identity. The fact that she supports her friend Liz’s performance while navigating her own emotions shows a maturity that’s rare in YA narratives.
Mother-Daughter Dynamics: The Unspoken Heart of the Show
One thing that immediately stands out is the relationship between Elle and her mother, Eva. June Diane Raphael’s portrayal of Eva as a woman in her 40s grappling with her own identity is a detail I find especially interesting. It’s not just Elle’s coming-of-age story—it’s Eva’s too. What this really suggests is that the struggle to find oneself isn’t confined to adolescence. Eva’s journey mirrors Elle’s, and their bond becomes a powerful exploration of how love and conflict coexist in families. If you take a step back and think about it, this duality is what makes their relationship so relatable and compelling.
The Subtle Power of Staying True to Yourself
Elle’s pink flannel and space buns aren’t just fashion choices—they’re statements. Showrunner Laura Kittrell nails it when she says Elle’s lightness and joy are fundamental to her character. But what’s truly remarkable is how the show avoids the cliché of transforming the protagonist into someone unrecognizable. Elle learns from Seattle, but she doesn’t become Seattle. This raises a deeper question: why do so many stories pressure characters (and by extension, viewers) to change completely to fit in? Elle challenges that narrative, and in my opinion, that’s its greatest strength.
Liz and Kimberly: The Relationship We Didn’t Know We Needed
The secret love connection between Liz and Kimberly is more than just a subplot—it’s a reminder that characters have lives beyond the protagonist’s story. Personally, I love how the show acknowledges that Elle isn’t the center of everyone’s universe. Liz’s role as Elle’s guide to self-acceptance is beautifully understated. Their friendship isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about quiet support and mutual respect. This dynamic feels authentic, and it’s a refreshing departure from the typical ‘new kid saves the day’ trope.
The Parents: Real People, Real Problems
Eva and Wyatt’s marital struggles are a standout element of the show. What many people don’t realize is that their conflict isn’t just background noise—it’s a crucial part of Elle’s story. Their growing pains reflect the complexities of adult relationships, and it’s a bold move to give them such depth. Tom Everett Scott’s performance, especially his musical moment with ‘Wonderwall,’ adds layers to Wyatt’s character. It’s not just a nod to Scott’s past roles; it’s a reminder that parents are individuals with their own dreams and regrets.
Looking Ahead: What Season 2 Could Mean
The cliffhangers in the finale aren’t just plot devices—they’re invitations to explore deeper themes. From my perspective, Season 2 has the potential to dive into the complexities of identity, love, and family in even more nuanced ways. Will Elle’s optimism be tested? How will Eva and Wyatt’s relationship evolve? And what will Liz and Kimberly’s story reveal about the show’s commitment to authenticity? These questions aren’t just about plot resolution; they’re about the show’s ability to continue challenging conventions.
Final Thoughts: A Love Letter to Teens and Beyond
What Elle does best is remind us that it’s okay to be yourself, even if you’re different. Lauren Neustadter’s description of the show as a ‘love letter to teens’ hits the nail on the head. But I’d argue it’s more than that—it’s a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt out of place. The show’s universal themes and relatable characters make it a standout in the YA genre. As we await Season 2, one thing is clear: Elle isn’t just a show about growing up; it’s a show about growing into yourself. And that, in my opinion, is what makes it truly special.
