Parents' Guide to Elle

Elle TV show poster: Elle stands in front of her high school locker; she's clad head to toe in pink

Common Sense Media Review

Polly Conway By Polly Conway , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 13+

Cute Legally Blonde prequel has some bullying, drinking.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 13+?

Any Positive Content?

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Parent and Kid Reviews

age 14+

Based on 1 parent review

age 10+

Based on 1 kid review

What's the Story?

After her perfect sweet 16 party, affluent and popular L.A. teen Elle Woods receives some bad news: her family is moving to Seattle, where even the school cheerleaders are draped in drab gray sweatshirts and carry black umbrellas. Along with her beloved chihuahua Bruiser, she'll have to find her own way in this new world. Thanks to some new friends and a supportive family, it should be just a matter of time.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say ( 1 ):

With hints of Clueless and Mean Girls, and of course a heaping dose of the original films' powder pink girl power, this cute series gives viewers a look into Elle Woods' formative years. Elle isn't perfect, but it's fun. The capable Lexi Minetree bears a striking resemblance to Witherspoon; it's a little uncanny valley but she eases into the character over time. Backed by a solid 1990s soundtrack, the nostalgia is heavy, with arguments about the superiority of Kurt Cobain or Eddie Vedder and lots of grungy plaid shirts. Elle's parents are often clueless, but they try their best to help their daughter through this transition, and like Elle, are good at heart. Themes include lots of classic teen TV tropes: wanting to fit in while trying to stay true to yourself, making new friends, and a good amount of romance. It's nothing new, but the characters are charming and the incomparable spirit of Elle Woods can't be denied.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about privilege. How does her financial background affect Elle? Can you be rich and down-to-earth at the same time?

  • Moving to a new city and state proves to be a big challenge for Elle. How does she show courage in her new school? Why is this an important character strength?

TV Details

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Elle TV show poster: Elle stands in front of her high school locker; she's clad head to toe in pink

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