Sydney Sweeney to Star in Film Adaptation of Edith Wharton's Iconic Novel "The Custom of the Country"
Studiocanal and Rabbit's Foot Films have officially approved the production of a film adaptation of the renowned literary work, Edith Wharton's "The Custom of the Country." Rising star Sydney Sweeney, known for her breakout role in "The Handmaid's Tale," will portray the ambitious and cunning Undine Spragg—an emblem of social ambition and defiance who challenges the traditional norms of high society.
This project marks a pivotal milestone for Sweeney, positioning her for more significant roles in literary adaptations and complex dramatic characters.
A Landmark in American Literary Classics Comes to the Screen
First published in 1913, "The Custom of the Country" stands as one of Edith Wharton's most influential novels. It offers a piercing critique of early 20th-century American upper-class morals, examining themes of social climbing, the use of marriage as a means of elevating status, and the tension between inherited wealth and newfound prosperity from the provinces.
The story follows Undine Spragg, a young Midwesterner determined to infiltrate the elite circles of New York and Europe. Her relentless pursuit of social prominence involves a series of marriages, scandals, and strategic social moves, set against a backdrop of rapid economic and cultural transformation.
Director Josie Rourke's Creative Vision
Josie Rourke, acclaimed for directing the historical drama "Mary Queen of Scots," will oversee the project as director and screenplay writer. She emphasizes the importance of the novel’s protagonist, describing Undine Spragg as one of literature’s earliest "dangerous" women—a character who boldly defies societal expectations and acts driven solely by personal ambition.
Rourke highlights the novel’s enduring relevance, pointing out that Undine’s character remains strikingly modern over a century after the book’s original publication. During the scripting process, Rourke envisioned Sydney Sweeney in the lead role, believing her talent and screen presence are ideally suited to bring this complex figure to life.
Synopsis: Ambition, Scandal, and the Pursuit of Power
The narrative centers on a fiercely determined young woman equipped with beauty, daring, and unwavering self-confidence. Undine challenges the insular world of New York’s social elite, which often shuns outsiders, while navigating a tumultuous landscape of social intrigue, marriages of convenience, and public scandals.
Spanning both the United States and Europe, the story underscores her vast ambitions and the often destructive influence she wields over those around her.
A New Direction in Sydney Sweeney’s Acting Career
For Sydney Sweeney, this adaptation signifies a natural evolution in her already impressive career. In 2026, her starring role in the thriller "The Handmaid" surpassed $200 million at the global box office, and a sequel is already underway.
Additionally, Sweeney received critical praise for her portrayal of boxer Christy Martin in the biographical drama "Christy," demonstrating her capacity for intense and transformative performances.
Now, Sweeney is set to embody one of literature’s most complex and provocative heroines—a character who simultaneously captivates, irritates, and ultimately disrupts everyone she encounters.
Production Timeline and Expectations
Filming for "The Custom of the Country" is expected to commence soon. While an official release date has not yet been announced, anticipation is high, given the source material’s esteemed status, director Josie Rourke’s reputation, and Sweeney’s rising star power. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how this adaptation will bring Edith Wharton’s classic novel to contemporary audiences.
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