Legendary Entertainment and Scholastic Entertainment have announced a collaboration to bring the beloved children’s book series, “The Magic School Bus,” to life on the big screen in a live-action feature film adaptation. Elizabeth Banks is set to 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.
“The Magic School Bus” is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, having sold over 90 million books worldwide. Created by Joanna Cole and illustrated by Bruce Degen, the series follows Ms. Frizzle as she takes her students on magical field trips in her shape-shifting school bus, exploring science in fun and engaging ways.
The franchise’s popularity has soared since its debut in 1986, expanding to television and digital platforms. The animated series that aired on PBS from 1994 to 1997, featuring Lily Tomlin as Ms. Frizzle, was a massive success, ranking among PBS’s top-rated programs for school-age children. Netflix also attempted a reboot titled “The Magic School Bus Rides Again,” running for three seasons between 2017 and 2021.
Elizabeth Banks’ involvement with “The Magic School Bus” dates back to 2020 when she was initially linked to the project under Universal Pictures. After the rights transitioned to Legendary Entertainment, Banks is now set to bring Ms. Frizzle to life in the upcoming live-action movie.