Frederick Forsyth’s 1971 thriller novel The Day of the Jackal has long held a place in the world of suspense fiction, centering on a professional assassin’s attempt to kill French President Charles de Gaulle. While the original was adapted into a 1973 film, a new series has revived the story, adapting it for modern audiences and premiering on November 7, 2024, on Sky Atlantic and NOW in the UK, with a U.S. release set for November 14 on Peacock.
This fresh take brings Academy Award-winning actor Eddie Redmayne into the spotlight as the enigmatic assassin known as the Jackal, while Lashana Lynch stars as Bianca, an MI6 agent relentless in her pursuit. As the story unfolds, Redmayne’s Jackal is a master of deception, operating in an intricate web of high-profile assignments that pull intelligence agencies from around the world into the fray. The central conflict between the assassin and Bianca creates a gripping, high-stakes game of cat and mouse, evolving into a narrative that combines fast-paced action with suspense.
A Modern Storyline for New Audiences
Unlike the 1973 adaptation, this series transposes the plot from the Cold War era to the present day. Reflecting today’s geopolitical landscape, the narrative weaves in themes such as big-tech influence and far-right extremism, showcasing the Jackal as a figure who moves through a world dominated by surveillance, digital identities, and shifting political alliances. This reimagining allows audiences to see the characters’ motivations and methods through a contemporary lens, adding depth and relevance to the timeless story of a lone assassin.
Critical Praise and Riveting Performances
Critics have responded positively to the series. The Times praised Redmayne’s performance, noting his “subtly deceitful charm and precise intelligence” in bringing the cold, calculating Jackal to life. The Financial Times echoed these sentiments, describing the series as a “gripping procedural thriller” that successfully maintains the original’s suspense and tension while updating the narrative’s stakes. Lashana Lynch’s portrayal of Bianca has also garnered acclaim. As an MI6 operative determined to stop the Jackal, her character combines personal sacrifices and a superhero-like tenacity, adding complexity and emotional depth to the pursuit.
A Global Production with Cinematic Flair
Filmed across multiple European locations—including Hungary, Croatia, Austria, and the UK—the series brings an international dimension to the classic tale. The visually diverse settings provide an ideal backdrop for the Jackal’s missions and Bianca’s pursuit, enhancing the global reach of the story while underscoring the high stakes that drive the plot forward. This scenic richness is another element that appeals to viewers, making the world of The Day of the Jackal feel immersive and expansive.
The Team Behind the Vision
Eddie Redmayne, who also serves as an executive producer, was instrumental in bringing this project to life. Redmayne expressed his excitement for the opportunity to delve deeper into the enigmatic character of the Jackal, with a longer format allowing for a nuanced portrayal of his psyche. Lashana Lynch, also an executive producer, sees her character Bianca as a determined, complex hero, willing to confront the darkest challenges to bring justice to the world.
A Fresh Take for Fans and Newcomers Alike
With its careful balance of suspense, character depth, and contemporary themes, The Day of the Jackal is a compelling adaptation poised to captivate both fans of the original novel and newcomers to Forsyth’s world. This series blends the essence of the 1971 classic with new ideas, setting a standard for reimagining timeless thrillers in the modern age.