Start the week with Fred Zinnemann’s 1973 film The Day of the Jackal, a tightly constructed political thriller about a professional assassin hired to kill French President Charles de Gaulle. Edward Fox stars as the elusive Jackal in this adaptation of Frederick Forsyth’s novel.
Which version is this?
This recommendation is for the original 1973 feature film, directed by Fred Zinnemann—not the later television series with the same title. The British Film Institute identifies Zinnemann’s film as an adaptation of Forsyth’s novel. BFI film listing
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
The Day of the Jackal | $7.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
The Day of the Jackal | $7.19 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Jackal Day DVD | $23.15 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Mischief Night: The Legend of Jackal James | $17.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
The Day of the Jackal Movie Review: A Comprehensive Guide to the Series' Cast, Plot, Production, and... | $5.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Sky describes its later production as a “contemporary reimagining” based on Forsyth’s novel and the award-winning 1973 film. That is a separate screen version, not another name for Zinnemann’s movie. Sky Group announcement
What is the film about?
A professional hitman known as the Jackal is hired to assassinate French President Charles de Gaulle. That central premise is given by both the BFI Player listing and the British Board of Film Classification. The story’s tension comes from the attempt itself and the effort to stop it, rather than from uncertainty about the target.
#1 Best Overall
Why choose it for a weeknight?
The BFI notes that the film was shot on location across Europe and describes its detailed construction as plausible and exciting even when the outcome seems inevitable. That makes it a good pick for viewers who enjoy a procedural thriller: the appeal is in the unfolding operation and its pursuit, not simply in a last-minute twist. BFI film listing
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where can you watch it?
The BFI Player has a rental page for the film. Check the live listing for current availability, rental terms and territorial access, which may change. Watch The Day of the Jackal online at BFI Player
Rank #2
For a companion read, Forsyth’s novel is the source material identified by the BFI. Choose an edition that suits you; no particular edition or retailer listing is established here. BFI film listing
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #3
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
