Elle Director on Reese Witherspoon, Season 2, Murder She Wrote Movie

Jason Moore, a prominent film, television, and Broadway director, is making waves in the entertainment industry with his upcoming projects that bring a fresh perspective to familiar stories. From directing the first two episodes of the Prime Video “Legally Blonde” prequel series “Elle” to helming the feature film adaptation of “Murder, She Wrote” starring Jamie Lee Curtis, Moore is proving that what’s old can indeed be new again.

I had the opportunity to catch up with Moore in his New York City apartment, where he had just returned from directing a revival of “Avenue Q” in the West End. With a Tony nomination under his belt for best direction of a musical, Moore shared insights into his creative process and the challenges of bringing iconic characters to life on screen and stage.

In “Elle,” Moore worked with a talented cast led by Lexi Minetree, who plays a young Elle Woods before the events of the original “Legally Blonde” movies. Describing Minetree as a blend of Sutton Foster and Lucille Ball, Moore praised her dedication to capturing Elle’s essence through meticulous preparation and attention to detail.

One of the highlights of “Elle” is the nostalgic nods to the ’90s, with references to pop culture icons like Tab, “Melrose Place,” Heather Locklear, and more. Moore explained that while the show is set in the ’90s, the cinematography and styling are modern, creating a unique visual aesthetic that blends past and present seamlessly.

Diversity and representation are also key elements of “Elle,” with Moore crediting creator Laura Kittrell and the all-female creative team for bringing a fresh perspective to the story. The show’s diverse cast reflects a more inclusive approach to storytelling, resonating with audiences across different backgrounds.

When it comes to costumes, Moore teased that Season 2 of “Elle” will feature bold and iconic looks, with archival pieces from the original movie adding a touch of authenticity to the characters’ wardrobes. The attention to detail in the costumes reflects Moore’s commitment to capturing the essence of the characters and the era in which they exist.

Switching gears to “Murder, She Wrote,” Moore shared insights into the upcoming adaptation, promising a twisty-turny murder mystery inspired by Agatha Christie. With Jamie Lee Curtis in the lead role as Jessica Fletcher, the film will blend elements of classic crime drama with comedic undertones, offering a fresh take on the beloved TV series.

As for Easter eggs and callbacks to the original “Murder, She Wrote,” Moore assured fans that there will be subtle references that pay homage to the iconic show and its star, Angela Lansbury. These nods to the past will add an extra layer of nostalgia for longtime fans while introducing new audiences to the timeless appeal of Jessica Fletcher’s detective adventures.

With “Elle” Season 1 already streaming on Prime Video and “Murder, She Wrote” in the works, Jason Moore is proving that classic stories can be reimagined for a new generation with creativity and respect for the source material. As he continues to push boundaries and challenge conventions in his work, Moore remains a visionary director with a keen eye for storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide.