The Day of the Jackal
Official Trailer
Plot Summary
This high-stakes thriller reimagines Frederick Forsyth's classic novel about a professional assassin known only as "The Jackal" who is hired to kill French President Charles de Gaulle in 1963. The series expands on the original story with deeper character development, showing parallel narratives of the meticulous assassin preparing his mission and the determined investigator racing to uncover his identity before it's too late.
Why You Should Watch
- Modern update of one of the greatest political thrillers ever written
- Breathtaking cat-and-mouse tension between hunter and hunted
- Gorgeous 1960s European period detail
- Expands the original story with new subplots and characters
- Features an unforgettable lead performance as the enigmatic assassin
Main Cast
Review
"The Day of the Jackal" masterfully updates the Cold War thriller for modern audiences while preserving the novel's meticulous tension. Ramírez delivers a chilling performance as the calculating assassin, while the series' expanded scope allows for richer political context and character development. The period production design is flawless, and the cat-and-mouse game builds to an almost unbearable suspense. A worthy successor to both the novel and the 1973 film adaptation.
Behind the Scenes
- Filmed across France, Italy and England to match original locations
- Frederick Forsyth served as creative consultant
- Ramírez studied professional marksmen to prepare for the role
Memorable Moments
"I don't care about politics. I care about perfection."
"The difference between a good assassin and a great one? The great ones leave no story to tell."
Fan Reactions
- "Ramírez's Jackal is terrifying in his calm precision - an all-time great villain performance"
- "The Paris episode might be the most tense hour of television this year"
- "Makes you hold your breath without realizing it"
Critical Reception
- Nominated for Best Limited Series at 2024 BAFTA TV Awards
- 95% Rotten Tomatoes score praising its "relentless suspense"
Episode Guide
- "The Contract" - OAS leaders hire the Jackal after failed attempts on de Gaulle's life.
- "Preparation" - The Jackal begins acquiring false identities and custom weapons.
- "The Investigator" - Lebel is brought in to track the mysterious assassin.
