Elizabeth Banks has been set to star in a live-action hybrid feature of ‘The Magic School Bus’ which is in development at Universal Pictures.

Based on the book series by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen, the stories are focused on Ms. Frizzle and her class as they set out on field trips in their yellow school bus that magically transforms into a plane, submarine, spaceship, or surfboard, depending on the science concept being explored.

Banks will play the role of Ms. Frizzle.

Banks will produce with Max Handelman for Brownstone Productions as well as President and Chief Strategy Officer Iole Lucchese and SVP & General Manager Caitlin Friedman of Scholastic Entertainment, and Marc Platt and Adam Siegel of Marc Platt Productions. Alison Small serves as Executive Producer for Brownstone Productions.

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“We are delighted to bring to life the iconic Ms. Frizzle and her zest for knowledge and adventure in a fresh new way that inspires the next generation of kids to explore science and supports the dedicated teachers who help make science real and accessible for young learners every day,” said Lucchese.

The series of books have already been adapted into a TV series, the American/Canadian show received critical acclaim for its use of celebrity voice talent such as Malcolm-Jamal Warner and combining entertainment with an educational series. In 2017, Netflix premiered a sequel series titled ‘The Magic School Bus Rides Again’ to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Kate McKinnon featured as Ms. Frizzle’s sister Fiona.

Banks most recently directed a ‘Charlie’s Angels’ reboot for Sony. She is also attached to direct and star in an ‘Invisible Woman’ reboot at Universal.