The Day of the Jackal (2024): A Stylish Spy-Thriller Reimagining
Overview & Adaptation
The Day of the Jackal is a modern TV adaptation of Frederick Forsyth’s classic novel and its iconic 1973 film. Airing in late 2024, this action-packed spy drama breathes new life into the story of an elite assassin known only as “The Jackal.” movie.douban.comMovieWeb
Premiere & Format
The series premiered on Peacock in the U.S. on November 7, 2024, consisting of 10 episodes in its first season. MovieWebmovie.douban.comIMDb
Plot Summary
The Jackal is a highly skilled assassin-for-hire, accepting deadly assignments across Europe. But when he crosses paths with determined MI6 officer Bianca Pullman, an intense cat-and-mouse chase erupts, weaving suspense, deceit, and emotional complexity across multiple countries. IMDb+1movie.douban.com
Cast & Creators
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Eddie Redmayne stars as the cold, calculated assassin, The Jackal. IMDbmovie.douban.com
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Lashana Lynch plays MI6 agent Bianca Pullman, whose performance has sparked divided opinions. IMDbmovie.douban.com
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Úrsula Corberó appears as Nuria, a figure closely tied to Jackal’s personal life. IMDbmovie.douban.com
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Additional key cast includes Eleanor Matsuura, Chukwudi Iwuji, Charles Dance, Ben Hall, Lia Williams, among others. IMDbmovie.douban.com
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Ronan Bennett, Charles Cumming, and Shyam Popat wrote the show, with direction by Paul Wilmshurst, Anthony Philipson, and Anu Menon. IMDbElCinema
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The series credits Frederick Forsyth as its original author. ElCinema
Critical Reception
Critics have generally praised the series for its suspenseful pace and slick production design, especially highlighting Eddie Redmayne’s magnetic performance. Screen Rant However, many viewers have found Lashana Lynch’s portrayal of Bianca Pullman less convincing, with criticisms centering on a perceived lack of emotional depth and authenticity. IMDb+1
Viewer Feedback
Viewer reviews reinforce the mixed critical reception:
“Eddie Redmayne is fantastic in the role of ‘The Jackal.’ Cold, calm, calculated… Unfortunately, the MI6 agent… feels disjointed… Her character is just ‘unlikable’ at best.” IMDb
“Eddie carries the show… His performance is a masterpiece of suspense… Without this casting issue, it would easily be a 10/10.” IMDb
On platforms like Douban, the series earns a solid 8.7/10 from over 148,000 reviewers, with fans applauding its stylish execution and gripping atmosphere—though some point out creative deviations from the original. movie.douban.com
Episode Highlights
The first season’s episodes released between November 14 and December 12, 2024, gradually intensifying the chase across Europe:
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Episode 1 (Nov 14): The Jackal’s latest assassination draws MI6’s attention. (8.2/10) IMDb
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Episode 7 (Nov 28): A tense showdown unfolds in Tallinn as Bianca closes in. (7.9/10) IMDb
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Episode 8 (Dec 5): Following chaos in Tallinn, Bianca investigates Duggan’s history. (8.1/10) IMDb
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Episodes 9 & 10 (Dec 12): The plot reaches full throttle—Jackal must complete his mission while escaping capture. (8.7/10 and 8.4/10) IMDb+1
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Title & Premiere | The Day of the Jackal (2024), Peacock, premiered Nov 7, 2024 |
| Genre | Action, Crime-Drama, Thriller, Spy |
| Source Material | Adapted from Frederick Forsyth’s novel and the 1973 film |
| Key Cast | Eddie Redmayne (Jackal), Lashana Lynch (Bianca), Úrsula Corberó (Nuria) |
| Writers/Directors | Writers: Ronan Bennett, Charles Cumming, Shyam Popat; Directors: Wilmshurst, Philipson, Menon |
| Episode Count | 1st season: 10 episodes (Nov–Dec 2024) |
| Reception | Acclaimed for style & Redmayne’s performance; some criticism over Bianca’s portrayal |
| Viewer Rating | IMDb ~8.1; Douban 8.7/10 from over 148K reviews |
Final Take
The Day of the Jackal delivers a gripping, cinematic spy thriller anchored by a standout Eddie Redmayne. Its polished visuals and tightly constructed narrative make it a binge-worthy experience—though some may find the character depth uneven due to mixed reactions to Bianca’s portrayal. Fans of espionage drama will likely enjoy its suspense, style, and reinterpretation of a classic tale.
