By Elliot Lines - November 6, 2024
Written by Frederick Forsyth, The Day of the Jackal (Book) released in 1971, depicting the assassination attempt on the life of Charles de Gaulle. Forsyth's fictional version of this story was adapted into a thriller by Fred Zinnemann in 1973, also titled The Day of the Jackal. In 2024, the remakes of the classics continue with Sky/Peacock bringing the "Jackal's" story into the 21st century. The Day of the Jackal is a well-crafted assassin/spy thriller that features creative kills and escapes while adding emotional depth to it's characters.
In this version of the story, after a political leader is killed at an impossible distance, MI6 agent Bianca Pullman (Lashana Lynch) is tasked with hunting down The Jackal (Eddie Redmayne). As wealthy business interests become involved, the pursuit escalates into a thrilling hunt across Europe as he plans his next assassination.
The series takes a fresh approach to previous adaptations, bringing it into the 21st century. It focus' on real world issues like the lack of financial transparency or government corruption, while also bringing a spy thriller that has a creative gadgets/weapons, ultimately resulting in inventive kills.
Eddie Redmayne stars as The Jackal, bringing a serious dead pan intensity to the role. The Jackal is focussed on getting the job done, and that focus shines through Redmayne's performance. Yet there is another side to him - a family man - and in these moments Redmayne shifts to embody this.
It might feel weird to root for an assassin, but there is something about him that draws you in. Toward the end of the series, these feelings begin to fade, however there is no doubt more is wanted from this character.
The compelling nature of The Jackal makes it difficult to want Lashana Lynch's character to succeed, yet her performance is as strong as Redmayne's. Her relentless drive to catch him, no matter the cost, keeps The Jackal on his toes. Lynch’s character is largely what gives the series its serious edge.
Also starring is Úrsula Corberó, who plays his on screen wife Nuria, she brings the family dynamic to The Jackal's character, and her curiosity when her husband Charles (The Jackal) acts different adds a layer to the high stakes already at play.
The Day of the Jackal is a gripping, modern adaptation with high-stakes action and emotional complexity. By grounding the thriller in timely themes of corruption and financial intrigue, it revitalizes this classic for today’s audiences. Eddie Redmayne’s intense portrayal of The Jackal and Lashana Lynch’s relentless agent create a compelling, high-tension dynamic that keeps viewers engaged. With inventive kills, smart storytelling, and strong performances, this version of The Day of the Jackal is a must-watch spy thriller.
The Day of the Jackal releases on Sky & NOW TV November 7
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