A boy in New York is taken in by a wealthy family after his mother is killed in a bombing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In a rush of panic, he steals 'The Goldfinch', a painting that eventually draws him into a world of crime.

'The Goldfinch' explores themes of trauma and art, with standout performances by Ansel Elgort and Oakes Fegley. Roger Deakins' cinematography is lauded, yet the film's length and convoluted narrative are criticized. Emotional depth and pacing issues are noted, with mixed opinions on its fidelity to Donna Tartt's novel. Despite these flaws, some find it engaging and resonant.