Copyright Deadline
EXCLUSIVE: Tyra Banks’ SMiZE Productions is developing a feature film about the woman behind the nail polish bottle — Sally Hansen — the real-life innovator whose personal story remains a mystery. The film follows a team determined to uncover the woman — chasing clues, rumors, and myths to reveal the real Sally Hansen, while juxtaposing her untold story against today’s global nail obsession. Blending beauty with business intrigue, the film explores how Hansen built one of the industry’s most enduring empires decades before “beauty influencer” was even a phrase — and how her legacy still shapes the $50-billion nail market today. “We’re obsessed with stories that make everyday icons feel epic and are excited to tell one that connects a timeless brand with the creativity and individuality people express every day,” Sabrina Besla, who was just promoted to Senior Vice President of SMiZE Productions, shared. Adding, “Sally Hansen is the spark behind how we all self-express through colour, creativity, and a little bit of rebellion — and we’re inviting collaborators — writers, directors, producers, and talent — who can join us in making audiences feel that spark.” Besla’s new role will have her oversee development and production across the company’s growing U.S. and international portfolio as the prodco continues expanding into original stories and IP spanning film, series, and branded storytelling. “Sabrina has been a creative force as we craft stories that reimagine creativity, confidence, and cultural impact on screen,” said Banks. “Every day she leads with one of our company’s principles — ‘Different is better than better.’ That’s the energy driving SMiZE forward. As we bring culturally relevant stories to life in unexpected ways, I couldn’t ask for a more fearless, strategic partner to lead this charge.” SMiZE Productions’ global slate includes scripted, unscripted, live theatre, and ice-cream-themed entertainment projects in the U.S., Canada, and Australia, with additional announcements slated through 2026. Banks and SMiZE are represented by Echo Lake Entertainment, UTA, Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole, and IMG for modeling.
