‘The Day of the Jackal’ television series, which premiered on November 7, 2024, brings a contemporary spin to Frederick Forsyth’s classic political thriller novel of the same name. Moreover, the show was written and produced by Ronan Bennett and directed by Brian Kirk.
This 10-episode British drama pulls from Forsyth’s source material while updating and diverging from it significantly. While the narrative takes inspiration from real historical events, it ultimately expands into the realm of fiction.
‘The Day Of The Jackal’ Is An Infusion Of Fact And Fiction
Frederick Forsyth’s original novel, published in 1971, is a blend of meticulous research and creative storytelling. It centers around the real-life assassination attempt on French President Charles de Gaulle on August 22, 1962. Additionally, this act was orchestrated by the Organisation Armée secrète (OAS).
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The OAS was a far-right paramilitary group opposed to de Gaulle’s decision to grant independence to Algeria. The attempt, known as the Petit-Clamart attack, was led by Jean-Marie Bastien-Thiry and ultimately failed. Bastien-Thiry and other conspirators were captured, with Bastien-Thiry executed by firing squad in 1963.
Forsyth used these historical facts as the backdrop for his gripping tale. He introduced a fictional character, the Jackal who was a cold, meticulous contract killer hired by the OAS to carry out their assassination plot. The novel is widely recognized for its authentic portrayal of the political climate of the time.
Moreover, despite the true events it draws upon, Forsyth’s ‘The Day of the Jackal‘ is primarily a work of fiction. Subsequently, it expands upon the historical attempt with a meticulously plotted what-if scenario.
Eddie Redmayne’s ‘The Day Of The Jackal’ Is A Modernized Version Of The Novel And The 1973 Film
Fred Zinnemann’s 1973 film adaptation of ‘The Day of the Jackal’ remains one of the most celebrated political thrillers of its time. The film was lauded for its faithful adaptation of Forsyth’s novel and its ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
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Zinnemann’s version adhered closely to the source material, with painstaking attention to detail. The movie held a strong commitment to maintaining the realism and suspense that Forsyth imbued in the book. Moreover, Edward Fox’s portrayal of the Jackal further cemented the character’s legacy.
However, the 2024 television series takes a bold departure from both the novel and Zinnemann’s film. Written by Ronan Bennett, the modern adaptation reimagines the narrative in a contemporary setting. The original plot of the show follows the Jackal’s methodical preparation to assassinate de Gaulle.
But the series shifts gears to explore the broader dynamics of international espionage. The series introduces MI6 Agent Bianca, who is determined to unmask the hitman as he gains infamy on a global scale. The show adds new layers to the protagonist, portraying him as a man with a hidden life.
The Hitman leads a double life and has a wife and child who remain oblivious to his deadly occupation. While Forsyth’s original and Zinnemann’s adaptation captured a specific moment in the 20th century, the 2024 series reinvents the story for a new generation.
