Elizabeth Banks is set to produce a new feature comedy titled 'Betas,' centered on the viral world of sorority rush culture. The project, backed by her Brownstone Productions, will be directed by Sammi Cohen from a script by Ilana Wolpert. It marks Banks's return to the college comedy genre that launched her producing career.
Elizabeth Banks, known for revitalizing the campus comedy with the 'Pitch Perfect' franchise, is producing 'Betas' through her Brownstone Productions for Universal. The film explores the intense and often viral dynamics of sorority rush week, drawing from contemporary social media trends. Sammi Cohen, who directed 'You're So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah,' will helm the project, while Ilana Wolpert, writer of 'Anyone But You,' penned the script.
Banks's personal connection adds authenticity: she served as rush chair for her sorority, Tri Delta, at the University of Pennsylvania. Producers include Banks, Max Handelman, and Alison Small, with Kimberly Carver executive producing. Details on the distributor beyond Universal and the production timeline remain undisclosed.
Brownstone, which has first-look deals with Universal Pictures and Universal Television, has a track record in genre hits. The 'Pitch Perfect' series grossed nearly $600 million worldwide, establishing Banks as a key player in college comedies. Recent Brownstone projects include the 2019 'Charlie's Angels' reboot, the horror-comedy 'Cocaine Bear,' and the Hulu series 'Shrill' starring Aidy Bryant. Upcoming efforts encompass 'Pitch Perfect: K-Pop Idols' for Peacock and the Peacock series 'Crush,' inspired by a 1995 'Jenny Jones Show' episode.
This venture underscores Banks's ongoing focus on female-driven stories in rowdy, relatable settings, building on her established success in the space.