An eagerly awaited adaptation of Frederick Forsyth’s renowned 1971 novel, The Day of the Jackal is set to hit the small screen, directed by Brian Kirk, known for his work on popular series such as Game of Thrones and Luther. The story, previously adapted into a critically acclaimed 1973 film, is now reimagined for a new generation of viewers, featuring Eddie Redmayne in the title role of The Jackal. For fans of crime dramas and thrillers, this series promises an intense and captivating journey into the life of a merciless assassin. Here’s everything we know so far.
Plot Overview of The Day of the Jackal
The Day of the Jackal follows the story of a cold, calculating assassin, known simply as The Jackal, who moves through life leaving a trail of victims in his wake. The novel, and by extension the series, centers on The Jackal’s relentless pursuit of his targets and the thrill of a game of cat and mouse that ensues when a determined British intelligence officer, Bianca, becomes fixated on capturing him.
Bianca’s life takes a pivotal turn after The Jackal’s latest kill, leading her to make it her mission to bring this elusive killer to justice. The pursuit becomes a battle of wits and strategy, where each move intensifies the tension, and viewers are drawn into one of the most suspenseful chases ever portrayed on screen.
While the core plot of Forsyth’s novel remains intact, this adaptation promises a fresh look at the dynamics between The Jackal and his pursuer, Bianca. With Kirk’s direction and Redmayne’s compelling portrayal of The Jackal, the series is expected to bring a gripping take on the original story’s themes of intrigue, danger, and the morally complex lives of those on both sides of the law.
The Cast of The Day of the Jackal
Taking on the challenging role of The Jackal is Eddie Redmayne, widely recognized for his performances in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them as Newt Scamander, as well as his award-winning roles in The Theory of Everything and The Danish Girl. Known for his versatility and ability to dive deep into character nuances, Redmayne is expected to bring a fascinating layer to The Jackal, blending charm with chilling ruthlessness.
Joining Redmayne is a talented ensemble cast that includes:
- Lashana Lynch (The Woman King, No Time To Die)
- Úrsula Corberó (Money Heist, Burning Body)
- Charles Dance (Dracula Untold, Game of Thrones)
- Richard Dormer (Blue Lights, Fortitude)
- Chukwudi Iwuji (Peacemaker, The Girl Who Got Away)
- Lia Williams (Dirty Weekend, Mr Bates vs The Post Office)
- Khalid Abdalla (The Kite Runner, The Square)
This diverse cast, with its combination of well-known and rising talents, brings a blend of experience and intensity to the story, adding depth to the characters who find themselves entangled in The Jackal’s world.
Release Date and Streaming Details
The Day of the Jackal is set to premiere on November 14, 2024, a date eagerly anticipated by fans of the original novel and crime drama aficionados. The project was first announced in November 2022, and filming began in June 2023 across picturesque European locations, including Hungary and Croatia. These scenic settings, paired with the series’ gripping storyline, are expected to offer a visually stunning and intense viewing experience.
The series will be available for streaming on Peacock in the United States and Sky Television in the United Kingdom. Given the high production value and stellar cast, this show is likely to become a staple for Peacock and Sky subscribers, so be sure to mark your calendar for the release date.
Why You Should Watch The Day of the Jackal
For fans of the 1971 novel, this series is an exciting opportunity to see Forsyth’s story brought to life with modern cinematography and storytelling techniques. Even for those unfamiliar with the original, The Day of the Jackal offers a thrilling dive into the world of espionage, assassination, and the harrowing choices of those who live on the edge of morality. Brian Kirk’s vision as director, combined with Eddie Redmayne’s intense portrayal, is expected to bring new layers to this classic story.
The previous adaptation in 1973 received widespread acclaim for its tension, pacing, and faithful adherence to the novel. This series, while staying true to the book’s essence, aims to offer new surprises and deepen the characters’ psychological complexity. With high-stakes action, psychological tension, and a plotline that keeps viewers guessing, The Day of the Jackal is set to be a must-watch for fans of suspense and intricate narratives.
Conclusion
Until The Day of the Jackal premieres, we recommend diving into Frederick Forsyth’s novel or watching the 1973 film adaptation to gain insight into the world of The Jackal. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the story or new to its intrigue, this series promises an intense, character-driven journey into one of the most suspenseful chases ever written. Let us know in the comments if you’re as excited as we are about this upcoming release!