The upcoming film Custom of the Country, written and directed by Josie Rourke, stars Sydney Sweeney in the lead role. The movie, based on Edith Wharton’s 1913 novel, follows the ambitious Midwestern woman Undine Spragg as she rises through New York’s social ranks around the turn of the century. This Sydney Sweeney Custom Film is generating excitement as it promises a blend of comedy and drama rooted in classic literature.
Main Cast and Production Details
Sydney Sweeney will portray Undine Spragg, whose determination and boldness propel her toward the elite social circles of early 20th-century New York. Alongside Sweeney, Leo Woodall takes on a key role. The project is produced by Sweeney and Charles Finch under Monumental Pictures and Studiocanal banners. Production is slated to begin later this year, with casting led by Nina Gold.
The film will debut in several international markets, including the UK, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, and the Benelux region. StudioCanal and Rabbit’s Foot Film back the project, aiming to bring Edith Wharton’s sharp social commentary to a global audience.
Director Josie Rourke’s Vision for the Adaptation
English director Josie Rourke, who has a background in theatre and made her official directorial debut with the historical drama Mary Queen of Scots in 2018, is adapting and directing Custom of the Country. Reflecting on the character of Undine Spragg, she stated,
“Undine Spragg is the original dangerous woman. Edith Wharton’s character has forever fascinated, seduced and infuriated readers. The Custom of the Country was Wharton’s great American novel and Undine Spragg sweeps across America and through Europe at top speed, during a time of immense economic and social change. The book whistles with modernity and as I was writing this adaptation, Sydney Sweeney lived in my head as this iconic character, it’s as if Wharton sat down a century ago and wrote the role for her. I’m thrilled to be working with this luminous actor, Charles Finch, Alison Owen and Studiocanal to bring this novel to the screen.”
Rourke’s approach intends to highlight the novel’s timely themes and energy, framing Undine as a figure who challenges societal expectations.
Producer and Studio Perspectives
Charles Finch, producer alongside Sweeney, expressed his long-standing commitment to bringing this story to the screen and praised Josie Rourke’s adaptation and Sweeney’s casting, saying,
“I’ve worked for many years to bring Custom of the Country to the screen, and I’m delighted with Josie’s adaptation, and the power, passion and fun that Sydney will bring to the role. I am excited to be working with Alison and StudioCanal.”
StudioCanal CEO Anna Marsh also commented on the film’s significance and the company’s role in its distribution, adding,
“We are thrilled to be involved in bringing Custom of the Country to the big screen, led by Josie Rourke’s vision to carry Edith Wharton’s sharp and timeless observations into a new cinematic era. Following our recent success in distributing The Housemaid in Australia and New Zealand, we are delighted to collaborate once again with the immensely talented Sydney Sweeney as the formidable Undine Spragg.”
The enthusiasm from the production team signals confidence in the film’s ability to connect with contemporary audiences.
Anticipation and Future Prospects
The adaptation of Edith Wharton’s Custom of the Country offers a timely exploration of ambition, social mobility, and gender dynamics as portrayed through Undine Spragg’s character. With Sydney Sweeney leading the cast and Josie Rourke’s direction, the film aims to resonate with modern viewers while preserving the sharp social critique of the original novel.
Given the strong backing from producers, casting experts, and international distributors, the film is poised to attract significant attention upon release. Fans of literary adaptations and Sydney Sweeney alike are watching closely as production advances toward its debut in various key markets around the world.
Leo Woodall joins Sydney Sweeney in the film adaptation of classic novel ‘CUSTOM OF THE COUNTRY’ for STUDIOCANAL. pic.twitter.com/84aNW9lxrL
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) February 17, 2026
