Elizabeth Banks Talks 'The Miniature Wife,' 'Pitch Perfect,' And Her Evolving Career

The Journey to "Elizabeth Banks"

Elizabeth Banks, born Elizabeth Mitchell in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, had to think creatively when choosing her stage name. With the Screen Actors Guild already having an Elizabeth Mitchell on its roster, Banks considered using her partner Max Handelman's last name but ultimately decided not to "jinx it" as they weren't yet married. Instead, she opted for "Banks" after scribbling down a list of two-syllable options. The name not only fit her criteria but also held a personal connection, as her mother used to work in a bank. "It was a serendipitous moment," Banks reflects, "I think 'Banks' was the perfect name, and I didn’t totally realize it until it was mine."

Starring in "The Miniature Wife"

In April, Banks wrapped up her press tour for Peacock's new TV series "The Miniature Wife," where she stars alongside Matthew Macfadyen. Playing Lindy Littlejohn, a bestselling author shrunk to a six-inch stature, Banks explored the comedy's high-concept roots, reminiscent of "The War of the Roses" and "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids." Filming the series in Toronto brought unique challenges, as scenes were shot separately using a green screen. "Doing physical comedy is inherently silly," Banks notes, "It’s inherently vulnerable. You're failing a lot before you win."

“You have to be very open to failure. Then doing all of that by myself on a green screen…it just felt so silly on a level that I’ve never really experienced.”

Balancing Roles On and Off Screen

Banks, now 52, shines not only as an actress but also as a producer, director, and advocate. Over the years, she has built a reputable career, gaining recognition from roles in "Pitch Perfect" and "The Hunger Games." Her production company, Brownstone Productions, which she co-founded with her husband Max Handelman, has produced hits like "Pitch Perfect" and "Charlie's Angels." Banks' advocacy for gun control and women’s health, along with her ventures in business, showcase her multi-faceted influence in and out of Hollywood.

Currently, Banks is eagerly awaiting the release of "The Hunger Games: Sunrise in the Reaping," featuring Elle Fanning as a younger Effie Trinket. "I'm so excited for her to make it her own," she says. While focusing on new projects, Banks remains optimistic about the evolving landscape of Hollywood. "I think storytelling is adapting to the way people consume," Banks observes, "What we pass on is the human stuff."