According to Variety, Jon Avnet has signed on to write and direct Phoenix Pictures' psychosexual thriller The Understudy, with Mike Medavoy and Arnie Messer producing.

The project, based on an original screenplay by Andres Heinz, concerns a young understudy who walks a fine line between make-believe and insanity. Phoenix is fast-tracking the project, overseen by Phoenix exec Anne Rodman.

Avnet's directing credits include Red Corner, Up Close & Personal and Fried Green Tomatoes.