Director Jason Moore discusses his work on the Prime Video series ‘Elle’ and the upcoming ‘Murder, She Wrote’ film, featuring insights on casting and wardrobe.
New Delhi, India Jul 6, 2026 ALN: Film, television, and Broadway director Jason Moore has made a name for himself by embracing the adage that what’s old is new again. With a career that spans various mediums, he has directed both critically acclaimed productions and popular entertainment. Moore is a Tony-nominee, recognized for his work on the original Broadway production of the adult-oriented puppet musical “Avenue Q,” which garnered attention for its innovative approach to storytelling and humor. Recently, he has taken on the dual role of director for the Prime Video series “Elle,” a prequel to the iconic “Legally Blonde” films, and as the director of the upcoming film adaptation of the classic television series “Murder, She Wrote.”
In the series “Elle,” Reese Witherspoon’s doppelgänger Lexi Minetree takes on the titular role, portraying a younger version of Elle Woods, the character made famous by Witherspoon in the original two “Legally Blonde” movies, which debuted in 2001 and 2003. This prequel aims to explore the formative years of Elle Woods, providing insights into her character development before she became the beloved figure audiences came to know.
During a recent conversation from his New York City apartment, where he had just returned from directing a revival of “Avenue Q” in the West End, Moore shared his initial hesitations about directing a series connected to such a beloved film. He expressed, "When they first called, my reaction was, ‘Oh my god, that movie is like canon to me, I’m not touching that.’ But then I read the script, which was really good and funny, and it swayed me. It was a great way to show how she became the woman she became.” This reflection underscores the pressure that often accompanies projects that are adaptations or prequels to well-loved stories, as they carry the weight of audience expectations.
Moore emphasized the critical importance of casting the right actress for the role of Lexi Minetree. He stated, "We all knew that the series wasn’t going to happen without the right actress. Once we found Lexi, we were good to go." His praise for Minetree’s talent was evident as he compared her to renowned performers such as Sutton Foster and Lucille Ball, suggesting that her skills would not only honor the legacy of the character but also bring a fresh perspective to Elle’s early life.
Fashion plays a significant role in the storytelling of “Elle,” and Moore expressed his excitement about the bold wardrobe choices that will define Season 2. He noted, "They’re great in Season 1, but they get really bold in Season 2. The costumer from the original movie worked on it, so we had access to all these archival pieces. For Season 1, most of it was built to look archival. Season 2 is all archival.” This attention to detail not only adds authenticity to the series but also serves to connect the prequel to its cinematic predecessor, allowing fans of the original films to experience a sense of nostalgia.
Moore further elaborated on the show’s nostalgic elements, explaining, "Some people don’t really understand because they think that things that take place in the ’90s are supposed to look more ’90s. My thing was let’s design it so that it is in the ’90s, but let’s photograph it like you would today." This approach allows the series to feel modern and relevant while still honoring the period in which it is set. By blending contemporary cinematography with period-appropriate design, Moore aims to create a viewing experience that resonates with both new audiences and long-time fans of the franchise.
Another interesting aspect of the production was Reese Witherspoon’s involvement. Moore shared that she visited the set twice during filming, which had a positive impact on the cast. "We did a table read with everybody, so they got to meet her and break the ice. She was very generous and part of the group, which helped the cast feel comfortable around her,” he noted. Witherspoon’s presence not only provided a connection to the original films but also served as an inspiring influence for the new cast, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
As Moore shifts his focus to his upcoming project, the adaptation of “Murder, She Wrote,” he revealed that the new film will strive to maintain the essence of the original series while introducing fresh elements. He stated, "It’s definitely true to the core of ‘Murder, She Wrote,’ but in some ways, it’s just a jumping-off point for a great murder mystery with a great female detective.” This balance of honoring the original material while innovating for contemporary audiences is a challenge that many adaptations face, and Moore appears to be mindful of the legacy he is stepping into.
Moore hinted at the use of the original theme song, saying, "We will find a way to use that theme song. It might surprise people how it is used." This suggests a thoughtful approach to integrating familiar elements that fans of the original series will appreciate. Furthermore, he assured fans that there will be callbacks to Angela Lansbury’s iconic portrayal of Jessica Fletcher, with Easter eggs included for hardcore fans. This strategy not only acknowledges the beloved character but also creates a bridge for new viewers to engage with the material.
The anticipation surrounding both “Elle” and the forthcoming “Murder, She Wrote” film reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where nostalgia plays a significant role in the development of new content. As audiences crave connections to familiar stories and characters, creators like Jason Moore are tasked with reimagining these narratives in ways that resonate with both existing fans and new viewers. The success of these projects may hinge on their ability to balance respect for the original material with innovative storytelling that feels relevant in today’s cultural landscape.
“Elle” Season 1 is currently available for streaming on Prime Video, providing audiences with a chance to explore the origins of one of cinema’s most beloved characters. As fans await the release of the “Murder, She Wrote” film, the excitement surrounding these projects speaks to the enduring legacy of storytelling and the impact of well-crafted characters in popular culture.
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