Sydney Sweeney’s New Role: A Step Down for Wharton Fans?

Edith Wharton’s celebrated novel, The Custom of the Country, was once on track to become a high-profile television series. The original plan had Sofia Coppola directing and Florence Pugh lined up for the lead. That version, though, never got off the ground. Now, the story is heading to cinemas as a feature film, with Sydney Sweeney taking on the main role.

Sweeney’s 2025 was a bit of a rollercoaster. She copped plenty of flak over the American Eagle drama and the flop of Christy. Still, her performance in The Housemaid turned things around, winning back some respect. Even so, there’s debate about whether she’s the right fit for this new project, and if shifting from a series to a film is the best move.

What’s in Store for Sweeney’s Next Big Film

Josie Rourke is set to direct and adapt The Custom of the Country for the big screen. The production is backed by Studiocanal and Rabbit’s Foot Films, with filming scheduled to kick off soon. There are plans for a wide release across multiple countries.

Sweeney will play Undine Spragg, a determined woman from the Midwest who’s set on breaking into high society. Rourke has spoken with real enthusiasm about both the character and Sweeney’s casting:

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.

Sweeney is also on board as a producer, which on paper looks like a big step up for her. Still, some reckon the project has lost a bit of its shine compared to the original plan.

From Prestige Series to Feature Film: What’s Been Lost?

Many fans were keen on the idea of a limited series, especially with Sofia Coppola at the helm. That format would have given the story more room to breathe, letting the characters and themes develop at a natural pace. Turning it into a film, though, risks cramming too much in or glossing over key details.

As for casting, Sweeney certainly has presence, but there’s a strong feeling that Florence Pugh would have brought something extra to the role of Undine. It’s a tough act to follow, and the change in format only adds to the challenge.

With all these shifts, punters are left wondering if the adaptation will live up to expectations, or if the original vision would have done the story more justice.