Elizabeth Banks to Star as Ms. Frizzle in “The Magic School Bus” Film

Legendary Entertainment and Scholastic Entertainment have teamed up to develop a live-action feature film adaptation of the popular children’s book series, “The Magic School Bus.” Elizabeth Banks will star as the quirky and adventurous Ms. Frizzle in the upcoming movie. Banks will also serve as a producer alongside Rob Letterman, who will direct and write the film’s treatment. This announcement coincides with the 40th anniversary of “The Magic School Bus,” a series that has sold over 90 million books worldwide. Created by Joanna Cole and illustrated by Bruce Degen, the story follows Ms. Frizzle and her students on extraordinary scientific adventures aboard a magical school bus. The franchise’s success has extended to television and digital platforms, with PBS’s animated series being one of the most notable adaptations. Netflix also attempted a reboot titled “The Magic School Bus Rides Again,” featuring Lily Tomlin and Kate McKinnon. Elizabeth Banks had previously been associated with the project, which was initially with Universal Pictures before moving to Legendary Entertainment.