While Elizabeth Banks might be best known for her starring turns in some of TV’s most successful comedy series (30 Rock, Modern Family, Scrubs) she’s determined to branch out, and, with a leading role in Paul Haggis’ (Quantum of Solace) The Next Three Days (Out In cinemas 5th January), it’s about time we took her seriously.
An experienced actress, Banks has appeared in the likes of Spiderman, Catch Me If You Can and Seabiscuit, but it’s only in the last few years that she’s come into her own and become one of the most desirable actresses of her generation.
The 40 year Old Virgin - 2005
With Steve Carrell, Paul Rudd and Seth Rogen as her co-stars, Banks hit the jackpot with her role in the incredibly funny and extremely successful The 40 Year Old Virgin. As sexy temptress Beth, Banks pulls in the laughs trying to steal away Andy’s (Carrell) virginity.
The role launched the actress into mainstream comedy and paved the way for what would soon become a multi-dimensional career.
Scrubs - 2006 - 2009
In 2006 Banks showcased her comedic talents and won herself the coveted position of Zach Braff’s love interest in the hit TV comedy series Scrubs.
As Dr. Kim Briggs, Banks got up close and personal with the star of the show (Braff’s J.D), earning herself a recurring role in the series and guest starring in seasons six, seven and eight.
Slither - 2006
Despite being a box-office disappointment, comedy-horror Slither received plenty of positive reviews. The film saw Banks take the helm as leading lady Starla Grant, one of a few survivors in a town infected by a parasite that’s turned the townspeople - and her husband into zombies.
While the critics may not have loved it, as the leading female, Slither put Banks on the map, showing that she was more than capable of handling the pressure of a leading role.
Definitely, Maybe - 2008
Returning to her comfort zone in 2008, Banks starred alongside Isla Fisher and Ryan Reynolds in Definitely, Maybe, the tale of a 30-something father going through a divorce.
As the college sweetheart of Reynolds’ aspiring politician, Banks perfected her leading lady style in preparation for her most dramatic turn yet.
W - 2008
Although Oliver Stone’s 2008 take on the George Bush presidency held plenty of comedic prospects, Banks played it straight as wife of the famed president alongside Josh Brolin.
The role won her particular critical acclaim and secured her position as a capable dramatic actress who could hold her own among an all-star cast.
The Univited - 2009
Returning to the horror genre in 2009, Banks starred in the remake of the South Korean film A Tale of Two Sisters.
Playing step-mother to twins that have recently lost their mother, Banks’ character is subjected to various torments throughout a film.
Although it opened to mixed reviews, all were unanimous in their praise for Banks, accentuating her versatility as an actress and confirming her now.
The Next Three Days - 2011
Starring alongside Russell Crowe, Liam Neeson and Olivia Wilde, The Next Three Days sees Banks play Lara Brennan, a woman jailed for a crime she didn’t commit.
When her final appeal is rejected, Lara becomes suicidal and her husband (Crowe) decides the only option is to break her out.
A tense, exciting and action-packed thriller, The Next Three Days proves that Banks still has plenty more to offer.
The Next Three Days is in cinemas 5th January.
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