Casting Call: The Goldfinch

In which we suggest who should star in the next big adaptation, remake, or historical film.

If you, like us, are obsessed with Donna Tartt’s The Secret History, you were beyond thrilled when The Goldfinch was released late last year. Despite its lengthy 700-plus page count, you knew Tartt’s first novel in 11 years would be worth the time invested. And when you learned you could see the Dutch painting on which the entire book’s plot hinges at the Frick Collection, you became even more motivated to read. If, however, you don’t live in New York but are still captivated by Tartt’s impeccable storytelling abilities, we bet you were similarly excited when Nina Jacobson’s Color Force announced they acquired the rights to the book last month.

The stage-setting scene of The Goldfinch induces mild nightmares: a terrorist bombing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art with few survivors, two of which are the main character, a boy named Theo, and the girl by whom he is fascinated, Pippa. In Theo’s state of slight concussion and shock amongst the rubble, he accepts a ring and enigmatic message from Pippa’s companion, a dying elderly man. The man, Welty, meekly points to The Goldfinch by Carel Fabritius hanging nearby. Theo detaches the painting from the wall and takes it with him as he exits the musem. The book follows Theo on myriad adventures, as he moves around the country while unraveling secrets embedded within Welty’s mysterious message, his stolen painting, and the black-market art world.

While Jacobson and her team are unsure whether The Goldfinch will become a television miniseries or movie, they are currently searching for the perfect filmmaker. They successfully adapted The Hunger Games, so we have faith they will do The Goldfinch justice. Before Hollywood makes their decisions, however, here is who we think should play Tartt’s intriguing cast of characters.

Casting Call runs every Friday. For more, click here.