'The Day of the Jackal' Review: Cat-and-Mouse Elegance: A Modern Thriller

Inspired by Frederick Forsyth’s acclaimed 1971 novel of the same name, “The Day of the Jackal," is Peacock’s newest adaptation of a classic thriller, masterfully reimagined for a modern age. Through complex and compelling characters and provocative storytelling, the thoughtful narrative weaves symbiotically around suspense and intrigue at every turn.

The well-crafted 10-episode series, set in exquisite locations around the world, follows a cunning, yet elusive assassin-for-hire, known only as “The Jackal,” played to exacting detail by Eddie Redmayne. The series opens with a meticulously orchestrated plot to take out a known political figure, showcasing The Jackal’s genius calculations and unmatched skills in the planning and execution of his work. When a key element of the hit alerts British Intelligence, enter MI6 Weapons Specialist Bianca Pullman, portrayed by Lashana Lynch (Bob Marley: One Love), to take the reins on the hunt to bring him in. Agent Pullman’s own tenacious nature and determined clarity of purpose sets off a vicious, high stakes game of cat-and-mouse played out in stunning effect across the globe.

The plot thickens, just as the Jackal accepts another high-profile hit job from an anonymous group, accelerating the race to uncover who he is and how he can be stopped. But, where? And, when? Nevertheless, with a quiet confidence, the titular character remains in the wind as he continues to evade authorities, moving in and out of life’s frame like a ghost. 

Redmayne, best known for his Academy Award-winning performance in the Stephen Hawking biopic, “The Theory of Everything,” delivers one of his most chilling performances, to date, as he navigates seamlessly between the calm precision of a gifted mastermind and the cruel and calculating heartlessness of a cold-blooded killer. The duality of this on-screen persona, depicted with such care and deference, is both enigmatic and relentless. The eerie presence Redmayne brings to the screen looms large, even in the most quietest of scenes, punctuated all the more without so much as a single word spoken. Much of the unfolding of the character is found in the physical. The striking, expressive eyes and stoic facial expressions encased in Redmayne’s deceptively boyish facade, belie the brutal tension later to come when watching a master work his morbid craft.

Turning the tables on this sophisticated chess match, Lynch, herself, shines as she brings an equally commanding portrayal to Agent Pullman. Lynch’s stellar performance delivers a multifaceted character who proves to be the grounding force on her side of the narrative. A highly competent professional, Agent Pullman exudes both a learned and inherent intelligence as she uncovers pieces of the Jackal’s profile. Authentic and engaging, she finds strength in the face of her own vulnerability and deep introspection. The captivating blend of the character’s sharp wit and clever dialogue leaves you longing, with much anticipation, for the dynamic showdown sure to come when the worthy adversaries ultimately meet face-to-face.

A beautifully layered in subplot that runs like a river through the story, yet almost overlooked amid the central theme of intense action and menacing drama, is the locked in, singular focus on the task at hand that drives and defines the formidable foes and their reason to be — at times, an all-consuming reality, the consequences of which present their own unique challenges of identity, trust, and the complicated relationships in their other lives that come at great personal cost for the two leads. 

With its Jason Bourne meets James Bond sensibility, “The Day of the Jackal,” informs as much as it entertains, offering another nuanced look into the world of espionage and the wealth and power that drives it all, regardless if it is viewed through the lens of politics or corporate greed. Underscored with sophisticated styling, scenery, and a blues-infused soundtrack within each episode, the series unfolds like a Condé Nast travel log, complete with a beautiful wardrobe, beautiful cars, and beautiful people doing decidedly dirty work. 

Created for television by writer/producer Ronan Bennett, “The Day of the Jackal” comes to Peacock on November 14. In addition to their collaboration on screen, Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch share co-executive producer duties this season for the production.