‘Magic School Bus’ Live-Action Movie With Elizabeth Banks as Ms. Frizzle Lands ‘Detective Pikachu’ Director

A live-action "The Magic School Bus" movie is moving forward with Elizabeth Banks attached to star as Ms. Frizzle. Legendary Entertainment has secured the film rights, which were previously optioned by Universal in June 2020. Rob Letterman, known for directing "Detective Pikachu," has been tapped to write and direct the project. This development marks a significant step for the film, which has been in development for approximately six years. The original "The Magic School Bus" animated series, based on the children's book series by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen, aired from 1994 to 1997 and followed Ms. Frizzle and her class on educational field trips. The live-action adaptation aims to capture the spirit of the beloved educational program for a new generation. The involvement of Letterman suggests a potential for a visually engaging and family-friendly adventure, similar to his previous work on "Detective Pikachu." The project's transition to Legendary Entertainment indicates a renewed commitment to bringing the iconic characters and concept to the big screen.