Ortega and Byrne Sign On for Gymnastics Thriller 'Nasty' From Warner Bros. Indie Label

Jenna Ortega and Rose Byrne are set to star in the gymnastics drama "Nasty," which will be produced by Warner Bros.' new indie label Clockwork, according to Variety. The film, directed by Mary Bronstein, follows an Olympic gymnastics hopeful who realizes that her toughest competition is her own coach. Production is slated to begin this fall, Deadline reported.

2 sources

DeadlineJenna Ortega and Rose Byrne to Star in Warner Bros. Gymnastics Drama 'Nasty'VarietyRose Byrne and Jenna Ortega to Star in Mary Bronstein's Gymnastics Drama 'Nasty' for Warner Bros. Clockwork

Screenwriter Isabella Jarosz wrote the project, which landed on the 2024 Black List of best unproduced screenplays, according to both outlets. Bronstein previously directed Byrne in the film "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You," and the two reunite for this sports drama. Deadline noted that Margot Robbie's LuckyChap production company is also involved in the project.

"a prodigious Olympic gymnastics hopeful who must overcome her biggest obstacle: her coach."

The film's title "Nasty" hints at the intense and adversarial relationship at the center of the story. Byrne, an Oscar nominee, and Ortega, known for her role in "Wednesday," bring notable star power to the project. According to Variety, the story follows "an Olympic gymnastics team athlete who realizes her greatest opponent is her coach," emphasizing the psychological drama within the competitive sports setting.

Warner Bros. Clockwork, launched as a boutique label under the Warner Bros. umbrella, is backing the film. The Black List recognition for Jarosz's screenplay signals strong industry interest in the script before casting was even announced. With production beginning in the fall, audiences can expect to see the film likely in the next year or two, depending on post-production schedules.