Elizabeth Banks Stars in Upcoming Thriller "Skincare"

IFC Films has secured the North American distribution rights for “Skincare,” a highly anticipated thriller starring Elizabeth Banks, set to hit theaters on August 16, 2024. The film, directed by Austin Peters, promises to breathe new life into the whodunit genre with a unique twist on vanity and crime.

Banks, known for her roles in “The Hunger Games” and “Pitch Perfect” franchises, leads an all-star ensemble cast in this noir-inspired thriller. The story follows Hope Goldman (Banks), a renowned aesthetician on the brink of launching her own skincare line. Her plans are thrown into disarray when rival facialist Angel Vergara, played by Luis Gerardo Méndez, opens a competing boutique across from her studio. As mysterious events unfold, Hope suspects a deliberate attempt to sabotage her reputation and business.

The plot thickens as Hope enlists the help of her friend Jordan, portrayed by Lewis Pullman of “Top Gun: Maverick” fame, to unravel the mystery behind the threats to her livelihood. The film’s intriguing premise blends elements of the beauty industry with classic thriller tropes, promising a fresh take on the genre.

“Skincare” boasts an impressive supporting cast, including Nathan Fillion, known for his roles in “Firefly” and “The Suicide Squad,” and Emmy nominee Michaela Jaé Rodriguez from “Pose.” The film marks a reunion for Banks and Fillion, who previously worked together on James Gunn’s 2006 horror-comedy “Slither.”

Scott Shooman, Head of AMC Networks’ Film Group, expressed enthusiasm for the project, praising Peters’ direction and the cast’s performances. “Austin Peters has cleverly pumped life into the ‘whodunit’ genre by delivering a riveting thriller dripping with noir,” Shooman stated. He particularly commended Banks’ screen presence, building anticipation for her leading role.

For Peters, primarily known for his work in music videos and documentaries, “Skincare” represents his debut narrative feature. The director shared his excitement about partnering with IFC Films, citing personal memories of the IFC Center in New York and expressing eagerness for audiences to experience the film.

“Skincare” was produced by Iervolino & Lady Bacardi Entertainment and completed prior to the recent writers’ strike. The film’s August release date positions it in a competitive summer movie landscape, going head-to-head with high-profile releases such as “Alien: Romulus” and the second chapter of Kevin Costner’s “Horizon: An American Saga.”

As the release date approaches, “Skincare” is poised to offer moviegoers a unique blend of beauty industry intrigue and classic thriller elements, anchored by Banks’ commanding presence and supported by a talented ensemble cast.