In an exciting development for fans of period dramas and literary adaptations, the upcoming film adaptation of Edith Wharton’s renowned 1913 novel The Custom of the Country has taken a significant step forward with the addition of rising star Leo Woodall to its principal cast. The project, which will star Sydney Sweeney in the lead role, promises to bring a fresh, compelling vision to Wharton’s timeless story of ambition, social climbing, and the American pursuit of success.
Woodall, whose captivating performances in HBO’s The White Lotus Season 2 and Netflix’s One Day miniseries have earned him international acclaim, will join Sweeney in the adaptation—a tragicomedy set against the glittering yet treacherous backdrop of early 20th-century New York City. According to a report by Deadline, the casting confirms the project’s momentum and the team’s commitment to assembling a talented ensemble.
The story centers on Undine Spragg, a young Midwestern woman whose beauty, determination, and relentless ambition propel her through the social strata of the city’s elite. As she navigates the high-stakes world of wealth and influence, Undine faces fierce opposition from the established upper class, but her resolve remains unshaken. Her journey offers a pointed exploration of the American obsession with status and the lengths one will go to achieve it.
The film adaptation is a collaborative effort among several prominent production companies. Studiocanal and Rabbit’s Foot Films are partnering to bring Wharton’s beloved novel to the big screen, with Monumental Pictures, Studiocanal, and acclaimed author and producer Charles Finch also involved. Sydney Sweeney, who is attached as a producer, is set to bring her signature intensity to the role of Undine.
Josie Rourke, known for her acclaimed theatrical work, has adapted the screenplay from Wharton’s novel and will serve as director, promising a nuanced and visually rich retelling of the story. While the core cast has yet to be fully revealed, casting director Nina Gold is actively scouting talent to fill out the supporting roles, aiming to assemble a dynamic ensemble that complements Sweeney and Woodall.
Studiocanal is financing the project independently and will oversee its theatrical distribution across multiple territories, including the UK, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, and the Benelux region. As of now, the film does not have an announced release date, but anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a compelling adaptation of one of Wharton’s most incisive works.
With Sydney Sweeney’s star power and Leo Woodall’s rising reputation, combined with a talented creative team, The Custom of the Country is shaping up to be a standout addition to the roster of literary adaptations hitting theaters in the coming years. Fans of classic American literature and compelling character-driven stories are sure to keep a close eye on this ambitious project.
