With its high-intensity plot about an attempt to assassinate French President Charles de Gaulle, the bestselling novel by Frederick Forsyth was a prime candidate for screen adaptation. Director Fred Zinnemann brought his veteran skills to bear on what has become a timeless classic of screen suspense. Not to be confused with the later remake
The Jackal starring Bruce Willis (which shamelessly embraced all the bombast that Zinnemann so wisely avoided), this 1973 thriller opts for lethal elegance and low-key tenacity in the form of the Jackal, the suave assassin played with consummate British coolness by Edward Fox. He's a killer of the highest order, a master of disguise and international elusiveness, and this riveting film follows his path to de Gaulle with an intense, straightforward documentary style. Perhaps one of the last great films from a bygone age of pure, down-to-basics suspense (and a kind of debonair European alternative to the American grittiness of
The French Connection),
The Day of the Jackal is a cat-and-mouse thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat until its brilliantly executed final scene (pardon the pun), by which time Fox has achieved cinematic immortality as one of the screen's most memorable killers.
--Jeff Shannon
1 The better of the two
This is an outstanding movie, filled with drama, great action and superb acting. Fox is wonderful in this film. The locations and the cinematography are excellent. And the tension and excitement are so well scripted.
2 Excellent Movie.
This movie is the standard for detective and spy movies, or for
most any other movie.
The acting is great, direction is very concise with no wasted
footage, the story moves well, it is brilliantly photographed,
casting is first class, the script is excellent, and in the end
it turns out the way we want it to turn out.
Watching this movie one is sadly reminded of how awful movies
have become these days. It is certainly now a lost art. Modern
movie makers should watch Day of the Jackel and see how it should be done. The makers of Day of the Jackel are just as
competent as the French detectives in the story.
3 I listened to all of them...
This is by far the best spy thriller I have ever seen. Not a thing is out of place here. The attention to details is just amazing. Acting is very good, plot is excellent, and directing is great. It is amazing how dedicated and professional both Lebel and the Jackal are. One is the bad guy, and the other is the good guy, and yet you cannot help but have respect for both of them. No bells and whistles here, just pure storytelling at its best.
4 The Drum Beat
The drum beat at the beginning of the movie MEANS SOMETHING.
During the struggle for French Algeria around 1960, the Frenchmen born in Alergia (pieds noirs) would indicate their loyalty to Algeria's colonial status and against Arab independence by honking their horns Da Da Da DUM DUM -
"Al-ge-rie fran-caise!" (French Algeria).
5 My high school aptitude tests pointed towards assassin...
So often it seems movies based on novels rarely live up to the expectations of those who've actually read the book, causing consternation and generally a slew of negative reviews involving commentary about how scenes are missing, subtleties not translating, and characters either marginalized or even removed. Well, that doesn't seem to be the case with The Day of the Jackal (1973), based on the bestseller written by Frederick Forsyth. Now keep in mind, I haven't read the book, so I gathered this by reading other reviews. Also, given the film is almost 2 ? hours long, I would think the story presented to be fairly inclusive with regards to the book.
The film is directed by Fred Zinnemann, whose other credits include High Noon (1952), From Here to Eternity (1953), Oklahoma! (1955) and A Man for All Seasons (1966), to name a few. Starring in the movie is Edward Fox (The Duellists, Force 10 from Navarone) and Terrence Alexander (The Vault of Horror). By the way, am I the only one who thinks Alexander looks remarkably similar to the main bad guy in Moonraker (1979)? I checked, and it's not...that character, named Higo Drax, and was played by Michael Lonsdale. Also appearing is, well, a slew of mostly European actors I won't bother listing, not because they're not noteworthy, but there was just so dang many of them. If you're really curious, you can look it up (What? You expect me to do everything?)
The movie, described as a quasi-documentary, takes place in the early 60's, about the time the premier frog in chief President Gen.Charles De Gaulle relinquished France's control of Algeria to back its' native occupants. This upset quite a few Frenchies, especially those who were either serving or were retired from the military at the time reasoning being that the war over that particular country was hard and costly, and now, the country that forced them to go fight is now ready to give it up, basically nullifying all the effort and sacrifices put forth to secure Algeria. Some were so upset they formed a group called OAS, an underground resistance group whose sole intention seemed to be the assassination of De Gaulle for his perceived treasonous actions. After about five failed attempts on De Gaulle's life (only one of which we actually get to see), the group decides it's time to bring in an outsider, as they seem to blame their failures on leaks and moles within their own group (the fact they were a bunch of lame duck, grabasstic, knuckleheads had nothing to do with it, I'm sure). Based on their research, they finally narrow the field to one, highly experienced, foreign individual, code named The Jackal (I'd love to see his resume). The Jackal's (Fox) demands are few, but very specific, and his price is high, as his reasoning is that this type of job is a career ender, based on the level of importance of the target. The OAS agrees to the Jackal's terms, and thus begins his long and meticulous process of developing false identities, procuring a suitable weapon, and researching suitable locations where he may have access to his target. The French authorities get wind of a new scheme by the OAS, but little else as the shroud of secrecy around the Jackal is very thick. Given the difficulty of obtaining information through their regular channels, the French authorities put their best detective on the case (no, not Inspector Jacques Clouseau), played by Alexander. His resources are nearly unlimited, but he must keep a tight lid on things as not to tip off the OAS and the Jackal what little information they have, which severely hamstrings the investigation. Now it comes down to a race between a deadly, meticulous, calculating assassin intent on taking out his target and a smart, intuitive detective intent on stopping him.
I really enjoyed this lengthy film. Zinnemann does a wonderful job showing both sides of the story, that of the assassin, and that of the authorities intent on stopping him, the two stories slowly converging to create a climatic conclusion. The pacing may seem slow to some, but it serves well to examine many fine details regarding both the Jackal's preparations and planning, and also the French gooberment's exhaustive investigation which involves a number of gooberment agencies from different countries as the Jackal is a tricky sort, taking great, meticulous care to cover his tracks and keeping his identity hidden. Also, it's worth the payoff as the last 20 or 30 minutes are really worth waiting for...I really liked how the Jackal was able to keep a few steps ahead of the authorities (with a little help), anticipating danger and making the appropriate compensating actions. Along the way he had to dispose of certain elements (people), but it was only done as measured against perceived threats to his ultimate goal...he may be a cold, methodical murderer, but he's a professional cold, methodical murderer. I also really liked the thoroughness of the investigation, based on tedious, deductive, involved work and not on conjecture pulled from someone's behind. The detective work was presented as thorough, comprehensive, and intelligent. Casting Edward Fox as the Jackal was really inspired (Michael Caine wanted the role), maintaining a sense of anonymity over the character, allowing for the focus to be more on the story rather than the celebrity status of an actor playing the character. The use of locations, mostly in France, but also in England, Austria, and Italy, was wonderful, and added so much flavor and credibility to the story. I love seeing places I've never been (but may like to go someday, but just to visit, not assassinate anyone).
The DVD offers a pretty good wide screen picture (1:85:1) and decent audio. Special features include detailed production notes and a theatrical trailer. All in all, a great adaptation, and a great film. Avoid the 1997 remake with Bruce Willis and Richard Gere...I wish I had...
Cookieman108
6 The coldest villain in the hottest thriller...
The coldest villain in the hottest thriller...
When Frederick Forsyth's 'The Day Of The Jackal' first hit the shelves, it became an instant classic. It reached such popularity that a movie was but a natural consequence. Movies have never faithfully reproduced the core essence of books simply because of the minute details only a book could offer. Try showcasing The Iliad in 3 hrs!
But the movie version of The Day of the Jackal far exceeded expectations. Not only does it stick to the original plot but also even to this day, it sets the benchmark for how spy thrillers should be.
If you haven't read Forsyth's epic yet, then let me clue you in. General Charles De Gaulle was considered a hero amongst his men when he fought for the liberation of France from the Germans in WWII. After becoming France's President, the same hero was considered a 'betrayer' after granting Algeria independence. A clandestine group in the Army, calling itself the 'Secret Army Organization' or OAS for short, launches a series of assassination attempts on De Gaulle, only to see each one destroyed by the highly informed and efficient French Secret Service. After the capture of its key lieutenants and its presiding leader, things become desperate for the OAS. It's new leader in hiding, believes that a foreign assassin of exceptional caliber is the only means left to dethrone De Gaulle. The assassin is known only by his code as "Jackal". This way the entire security network would be crippled for want of the man's identity. If you don't have a name, you don't have a face. If you don't have face?.... you don't exist. You are untraceable.
The premise is simple enough. It is how the Jackal plans and executes his operation that takes the bulk of the movie. The Jackal is a man of perfection and his attention to detail is something to be seen. A slight lapse in secrecy by his employers alerts France to begin searching for him, though they have no idea who or what he is. The job of finding him and 'disposing' him off in total secrecy falls into the unwilling hands of a simple French Detective. It is how these two protagonists move forward at breakneck speed in achieving their goals that takes the movie to a truly riveting, thrilling finale.
Edward Fox as the Jackal is beyond doubt, the coldest, most ruthless assassin to date. Fox is perfect for the role. His dull cowering gaze is chilling. From a staid English gentleman to a remorseless killer, Fox displays tremendous versatility and poise. Every action of his has a meaning and behind an immediate plan, he has a backup. Such is Fox's repertoire in impersonating as the Jackal. When I read the book, midway through it, I was actually rooting for the assassin. I felt the same way when watching this movie though I knew the end. To my knowledge, very few actors have so far delivered such a convincing negative-role performance than Fox.
Michael Lonsdale as the quaint Detective Lebel is probably the most "uncharacteristic" hero in any movie. He isn't your be-all end-all savior, with hands of steel and body of a superman. He does not fit into a mould which you can distinguish as "Okay, I know this kind of a guy..." and that itself is a tribute to this superb actor. He displays coolness in equal measure to the Jackal and comes across as a shy and timid man. In short, he acts as, just a detective doing his duty. His character is one of intelligence, resourcefulness and humility on one side with a quiet steely determination and resolve on the other. And Lonsdale is magnificent in displaying all of these aspects.
Together these two protagonists take an already exciting thriller to an explosive finale that is hard to imitate.
The rest of the cast add a lot of depth and meaning to their respective roles and each character has a major part in pushing forward the story to its worthy conclusion.
In short, The Day of the Jackal is a masterpiece. Considering the movies we watch today, this is slow paced, but with reason. Cheap thrillers always show you how a character dies from the bullet of an assassin but never the preparation for doing so. The Day of the Jackal shows you just how the assassin comes to that point of success. From the assassin's meticulous planning to his ultimate execution of that fatal shot, the movie shares the same perfection. Director Fred Zinnemman has set the standards for future thrillers by foregoing flashiness and instead focusing on the core issues of the book. He remains loyal to it and displays a rare cinematic flair that is very hard to beat. And do not mistake this movie to the recently released "The Jackal" featuring Bruce Willis and Sydney Poitier. One movie is a disappointment while the other is a classic..........
Watch Fox and Lonsdale square off each other....
Watch The Day of the Jackal in all its glory.........
7 Good Film!
I watched this film many years ago in TV but started from the middle; it was no actions, no car tracing...but it just catched my attention. I watched this film several times but all were not from the start. Eventually I have my frend to buy it from UK and sent it to me. I love this film because the detective the method used was so simple but effective. Further, this is very interesting to imagine the days when it was no internet, no (cheap, fast and powerful) computers to help the police. The police force just depended on their logical thinking and, of course, luck to find the Jackle. I still cannot say precisely why I love this film so much, maybe it recalls the days when our world was not so complicated. Anyway, it is a good film and worth to buy it.
8 Different versions...
OK, Fans,
We know you all love this terrific movie but there is a looming question that has bothered me for years. I would appreciate any insight anyone can offer...
In the second meeting between the jackal and the gunsmith (Cusack), the jackal is reviewing Cusack's handiwork and admiring the gun. Cusack then brings out the explosive bullets he has made. In almost all available versions that I have seen, this scene ends with a close-up of the jackal's hands as he loads the gun.
THERE IS ANOTHER VERSION. It is possible that I have completely lost my mind but I am convinced that I have seen a version of this scene wherein the jackal kills Cusack with the bullet he has just loaded.
This makes perfect sense in light of what we know of the jackal (that he would off any possible witnesses). Am I nuts? Has anyone else seen this version? Where did it go? Did the studio edit it for time? (It couldn't be more than a few seconds.) Did they edit it to make the jackal a more sympathetic character? (C'mon!)
Anyone? Anyone?
Thanks.
9 Altogether Superb Thriller
It's worth watching Michael Caton-Jones 1997 remake with Bruce Willis just to get a measure of just how good this is, just how easy it would be to make a routine, dull, forgettable film using the essentials of this plot. Routine, dull and forgettable is exactly what Caton-Jones and Willis deliver. What Zinnemann and Edward Fox deliver is one of the very classiest thrillers there is. It's a beautifully understated film, a quiet and deceptively slow-moving cat and mouse game in which Fox's mysterious super-assassin, the Jackal, is hired by the OAS to kill General de Gaulle. As he moves in on his target the authorities and in particular French Detective Lebel struggle frantically to stop him. The latter part of the story is a brilliantly compelling police procedural where we watch the combined forces of two countries, France and Britain, plod through endless tedious chores, ploughing through thousands of passport applications in search of a single dodgy one or through all the hotel registration books in greater Paris looking for people claiming to be Danish one of whom might be their man. Meanwhile Fox is superb as the Jackal - hateful though he clearly is, at least a part of one's brain is rooting for him through much of the movie, at least until the body count of those who have got in his way starts to mount up, just because he is a single individual pitted absolutely alone against the might of two states and everything their security apparatus can thrown at him. And so the story moves on through countless beautifully conceived details, the OAS spy who seduces a top official to keep tabs on the investigation, Delphine Seyrig and Anton Rogers as the people the Jackal seduces, best of all perhaps Cyril Cusack as the assiduously comme il faut gunsmith, calmly asking Fox, "Will the gentleman be moving?" as if he were a tailor making a suit. Finally we arrive at a climax that should be relatively free of suspense - we all know after all that de Gaulee in fact retired peacefully in 1969 - but is in fact one of the most brilliantly tense climaxes of any thriller I know.
10 Silence is Golden
It is funny that a movie which originally was a book has so little words, especially in the end. That is exactly what makes this movie so good because Zinneman has pulled it off making a book into a movie but doing it so well that the movie can stand on it's own. It is no wonder therefore that this movie was counted among the Top 1000 movies ever
The actors were too old so I didn't know any of them but my favorite was the policeofficer hunting down the assasin trying the kill French president de Gaulle.
It is still strange to hear really good English spoken by people that are supposed to be French while there are also French people in the movie playing French people with a French accent, a little confusing sometimes..
11 How To Stop A Stealthy And Anonymous Assassin
First of all, this film has no relation to the recent film titled 'The Jackal' starring Bruce Willis which is complete fiction and bad fiction at that.
Fred Zinnemann directed this 1973 film based on actual events involving the attempted assassination of French President Charles de Gaulle in the 1960s. A great suspense thriller where the audience is gripped by both the elusive assassin's stealth as well as the chief inspector's tenacity.
The film follows the real political events in France in the early 60s at the close of the Algerian War of Independence. Faced with public outcry to end the war, President Charles DeGaulle seeks peace with the North African rogue colony of Algeria. Ardently opposed to DeGaulle are many top military officers who've formed a conspiracy to remove him from power: by assassination if necessary. The conspirators enter into a contract with an elusive assassin known only as 'The Jackal'(Edward Fox) who will stop at nothing to get the job done. Although French authorities are aware of the plot, they're equally ignorant as to the identity of the hired killer. The task of finding the assassin in time falls upon an officer of the Surete (Michael Lonsdale: Drax in Moonraker) who's determined to protect the president.
The film is fast paced and brings the audience into the cat-and-mouse game almost immediately. The film follows both the assassin and his pursuer until the climactic ending. The film quality is good for its time and the audience is kept in suspense as to the assassin's methods and plans. The gripping screenplay is brought to life by the great acting talents of the actors as well as a competent director.
Altogether a great political suspense thriller that is all the more convincing because its mostly true. A great film to own or watch numerous times.
12 Excellent adaptation from Forsyth's novel. A winner!
Why not the jackal?
This is the answer given by the hard and cold assasin who signs the agreement to kill De Gaulle.
The story runs through a set of historical issues who are part of the story. A group of officers decides by themselves to revenge the lost honor of France due the fact about the independence of Algiers.
Edward Fox - one of the best actors of his generation - played with sublime perfection the demanding role of the Jackal.
So from the first images of the film you'll be engaged with this chess film. All the movements of this exceptional mind are guided by an amazing sense of hunter behavior. He acts like a western samurai , without blinking , he kills when the circunstances don't let him other choice. The feelings don't exist in this professional.
You are invited to presence an authentical tour de force. And since the moment an important link is arrested , your histamina and cold sweat will invade you.
The efforts of Le Surete for following any possible clue leads to an unforgettable mind game to spark the human chase since the moment the Jackal decides to go ahead with the plan and drive to France from Niza.
The rest of the story runs for you when you acquire this legendary and hair raising punch thriller. And once more you'll admire how the famous film maker Fred Zinemann could win with this story.
The locations and the sense of the drama are extraordinary made. And the words are not enough to describe the countless sequences of hard beating you'll experience.
A perfect film and believe me ; you won't feel the 140 min of the picture.
This is the first and best version!
13 A First Rate Spy Thriller
Not so much "spy" as "assassin," though, for Edward Fox is cast as an assassin, doing a job that will earn him his retirement. He is to kill President Charles de Gaulle, "le Grand Charles" himself, in Liberation Day, as we eventually find out--but not until much later in the film.
The killer goes through many personalities, disguises, and changes, and manages to kill a few innocents on the way to his final conquest. He is unknown to the gendarme, who are on his trail early, with the help of an informer on the inside, but eventually his appearance becomes known to them--and even then, in spite of an alert commissioner of police in Paris who is every bit his match, Inspector Lebel (Michel Lonsdale)--he almost makes his kill. Had he done so, of course history would have had to be re-written because of a movie, an unlikely event--so we knew that he would fail, but still the plot was so well played that the suspense was never lost.
Written by Frederick Forsyth and directed by Fred Zinneman, perhaps this film was predestined for greatness, but in any case it is one of the great ones.
Joseph (Joe) Pierre
author of Handguns and Freedom...their care and maintenance
and other books
14 If only it had had a happy ending
_Day of the Jackal_ is one of the best film adaptations of a book ever done, the directors managed to keep the vital elements of the plot and the pacing of the book and successfully transfer them from one medium to another. When I read the book after seeing the movie I was amazed at how much they had managed to keep. Edward Fox was perfect as the Jackal, it's a pity that he's ended up starring in so many bad films in his career as he is truly a fantastic actor. There are some wonderful moments of irony such as when the leader of the French terrorists says that no soldier of France will ever raise a weapon against him and then is shown being shot by firing squad the next day. The only thing that would have improved this movie is if the Jackal had succeeded in blowing Charles DeGaulle's head all over the pavement in Paris, I mean really, the guy goes to all of this work and fails in the end, and come on, he's trying to shoot DeGaulle, it's not as if he was attempting to shoot a decent human being or something, heck, even Eisenhower and Churchill wanted to shoot DeGaulle because he was such a useless, vainglorious prick.
15 No, it's not Baby Willis -- It's the REAL 'Jackal' !
Not much to add to earlier comments, except this: if you're looking for that truly dreadful Bruce Willis disaster of a so-called 'remake', and were directed instead to this original 'Jackal' by mistake, then go no further. You don't know how lucky you are to have missed the pure dreck of the remake -- rather, you've found your way to another masterpiece from the director who gave us "High Noon", and much more. Think of it as having embarked on a snipe-hunt for junkyard trinkets but happily stumbling onto a real gem. The DVD print is excellent, right down to conveying the subtley bleached effect that I recall from the original release, and the classic "look" and texture of the old Schneider Panavision lenses and European lighting -- all effects that heighten the movie's authenticity and mid-60's ambience. This classic is a far cry from the phony, who-are-you-kidding cinematic comic books of today that try to emulate computer games for overgrown adolescents. The writing, directing and acting are lean and direct, the visual style is spare, efficient, exceptionally effective. When you consider that this is a well researched, fairly accurate telling of actual people and events, you have one of those rare movies that, like "The Third Man", seriously upped the stakes for the espionage/suspense genre, raising the bar to heights that its imitators can't even hope to reach.
16 no let down although i read the book first
it is rare that a movie doesnt let one down after having read the book. this movie does a great job, it kept me glued although i knew what was gonna happen. out of the top of my head only one other movie was that much of a positive surprise (actually more) after reading the book first, Das Boot.
if u r a forsyth fan, don't worry, this movie won't disappoint u!
if u r not, it probably won't either :P
17 A Classic
It would be hard to improve this movie. The acting and casting are excellent, as is the buildup of suspense throughout, even though we know how it will end. Frederick Forsyth's book is excellent, but packed with enough detail to make filming difficult. The makers of this film succeed brilliantly, Watch for a young Derek Jakobi in an important supporting role. A must-see for anyone who likes thrillers or mysteries. Actually, it's a must-see for anyone who likes good movies of whatever genre.
18 Good Stuff
Looking for a thriller with an engaging plot and violence that doesn't look like it came out of a vega-matic? Then by all means check out THE DAY OF THE JACKAL, an intriguing film made over 30 years ago, based on Frederick Forsyth's exceptional novel of the same name.
A plot has been hatched to assassinate French President Charles de Gaulle; a professional killer with icewater in his veins known as "The Jackal" (Edward Fox) is hired. The French authorities learn of the plan and dispatch their best investigator, Inspector Lebel (Michel Lonsdale), to capture the Jackal and prevent the assassination. The movie subsequently follows the two characters--one as he implements his fascinating plan through disguise and deceit, the other as he races against the clock on a relentless manhunt--until their paths cross in a thrilling and riveting conclusion.
Fox and Lonsdale are wonderful. As the Jackal, Fox makes this cold and calculating killer absolutely believable, while Lonsdale lends a comic vulnerability to his role as the often-frazzled inspector. And director Fred Zinnemann knows exactly when to zip the lines of the actors and let the camera tell the story; in fact, a significant portion of this film is presented in golden silence. THE DAY OF THE JACKAL, although it looks tired at times and definitely shows its age, is quality entertainment. Good stuff.
--D. Mikels
19 Shows how the actual events of history can depend on a nod!
This movie/novel starts at a disdvantage: we all know that De Gaulle wasn't assassinated. So Frederick Forsyth does a fine job in creating the suspense that leads to the thrilling conclusion. The Jackal gets just one shot at De Gaulle, who unfortunately nods just at the wrong time. But along the way, in order to make the shot that hurtles unnoticed into a cobble stone, the Jackal has to kill at least four others who might give away his whereabouts to the police.
Zinneman constructs this movie as a two-strand plot: the Jackal, as he makes his preparations for the attempt, and the authorities,as they try to track him down. It emerges in the end that their original assumption -- that the Jackal was a particular Charles Calthrop -- was completely wrong. But that mistake aside, the combined French/English barely make a mistake in pursuing the correct figure.
Made in 1973, this movie lacks some of the big-budget feel that Speilberg subsequently brought to blockbusters. The most expensive element in the production was probably the crowd scenes in Paris, but you can see members of the crowd who clearly have rather longer hair than the supposed 1963 scenario would lead you to expect.
Another quirk of the DVD I bought: after the Jackal has murdered the wealthy French woman and is slipping out of the house, you can still see him standing outside his car while the ignition is being started. Jerkily, he is suddenly in the car, driving off. Clearly a couple of frames have been lost here, but the sound editing tries to make up for the visual discontinuity.
But all in all, this is a good film, a taut thriller that has you half-hoping the Jackal is successful in his objective. And it's extraordinary to see Derek Jacobi (who would star in I Claudius four years later), in such a minor role!
20 Outstanding
The Day Of The Jackal is an outstanding movie. My copy came apart because I watched it so many times. You root for The Jackal to succeed, but still you want him to get caught. It is only a matter of time before Lebel, who is also brilliant catches him. I wanted The Jackal to fail but I wanted him to get away unharmed. It is a battle between two outstanding brilliant men. I admired the humbleness of Lebel, when the powers to be thought that they had The Jackal trapped--he got away of course. They had to return again to Lebel to find him again. Please watch this movie, you will enjoy it.
21 Compelling Entertainment
Years before the U.S.'s controversial involvement in South Viet Nam, France struggled and eventually failed to sustain its own involvement in Algeria. Many of its senior officers felt betrayed by their government. Efforts to assassinate President De Gaulle failed. Frederick Forsyth had this in mind when writing the novel on which this film is based. At substantial cost, an assassin known only as "The Jackal" is retained by dissidents to succeed where others had failed. There are two separate but related plots: one focuses on the assassin's meticulous preparations; the other on Inspector Lebel's equally thorough efforts to identify, locate, and capture him. Of special interest to me is director Fred Zinnemann's decision to tell the story (as does Forsyth) in a straightforward manner, without any special effects or gratuitous violence. He presents Lebel (Michel Lonsdale) and The Jackal (Edward Fox) as highly skilled professionals. Each fully understands what he must do and how to do it. True, both receive assistance from others along the way but they nonetheless remain in complete control until their ultimate confrontation.
Although some have referred to this film as a "political thriller," there is an almost total absence of politics within its narrative. Although his client has specified Charles DeGaulle, The Jackal would kill anyone for the right price. Moreover, there is absolutely no indication of Lebel having any political loyalties or even personal opinions. He is a public official doing his job, no matter who is in danger. For some, I guess, this film is a thriller. It certainly has a number of exciting moments but I, for one, never had any doubt that Lebel would eventually prevail. My interest is explained almost entirely by the seamless development of the two plots, each of which includes several especially well-portrayed incidents. For example, when Lebel confronts a high-level minister who has unknowingly provided The Jackal with privileged information and then later, when The Jackal penetrates security defenses to position himself so that he has a clear shot at his target. "Riveting" rather than "thrilling" summarizes my response to events throughout this crisp and cohesive film.
22 Why can't they make movies like this any more?
Rarely does a movie do justice to a book, but Fred Zinneman's production of "The Day of the Jackal" is wonderful adaptation of Frederick Forsyth's novel which, I continue to believe, is one of the greatest thrillers ever written.
It's hard to put a finger on what exactly makes this film great: excellent performances by relatively unknown actors, a wonderful plot, fantastic location shooting or a complete desire to avoid the bells and whistles, special effects laden movies that are all that makes up the "suspense" genre of films these days. Like other reviewers have said, be this the first or the fiftieth time that you watch this film, you will be left on the edge of your seat with its "cat and mouse" plot of the search for a lone assassin hired to murder President De Gaulle. The young Edward Fox is brilliant in the title role and the supporting cast excellent.
If anything, this film proves that you do not need big named stars, explosions around every corner or computer generated effects to make a fantastic film. The only downside to watching this film is that you realise that the movie industry just does not make films like this any more.
Highly, highly recommended.
23 Edward Fox is bloody brilliant!!
Well, up front...I am an Edward Fox fan. Have been since he lumbered around in the 1966 FROZEN DEAD as Nazi Popcicle #3. Hey, he was one super fozen dead!! He had several good roles in next few years, but really stood out as Ian McShane's fellow flyer in THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN. They stole the show in a cast of super Brits - Lord Larry, Michael Caine, Ralph Richardson and Robert Shaw, just to name a few - firmly setting their star potential. But Edward really carved his chunk of attention for the role as the Jackal in the 1973 DAY OF THE JACKAL.
The film is a tight production, nearly boarding on documentary. Edward portrays the meticulous hitman of many disguises who has been hired to assassinate Charles de Gaulle. Based on the spy novel from Frederick Forsyth, director Fred Zinnermann focuses on the French detectives racing to track down the elusive Jackal before it's too late, and well as the dispassionate, professional preparations by Fox. But you are in two minds, actually. Fox is so winning in the performance, fleshing out the Jackal just not as a coldblooded killer, but as a man, so you oddly almost root for him to succeed, at the same time cheering for him to fail.
With the marvellous supporting cast of Derek Jacobi, Alan Badel, Maurice Denham, Cyril Cusack, the faced paced script by Kenneth Ross (Breaker Morant) keeps you absorbed from beginning to end.
Thanks awfully, Edward!!
24 Inside the mind of a killer
This classic thriller is awesome. I don't think I need to say anything else that's already been said above. Cya.
25 ONE SHOT IS NEVER ENOUGH !
Fred Zinnemann's THE DAY OF THE JACKAL is not the kind of thriller you are familiar with nowadays. For once, french actors don't look silly and have the terrible task to trace Edward "The Jackal" Fox who gives an award-deserving performance.
DAY OF THE JACKAL made me think of these cold war spy movies of the seventies. Do you remember ? We had the impression they were filmed only in green and blue, the characters didn't speak much leaving to the audience the task to understand the plot by itself. You will feel this kind of atmosphere in this film with the difference that Zinnemann worked with a solid gold screenplay.
The final scene, the day of the jackal, is about 30 minutes long and is already part of Motion picture History.
A few problems with the images ; white spots, images standing still during 1 or 2 seconds. The sound is, in my opinion, the best we can expect from a 1973 movie.
A DVD worthy of multiple viewings.
26 The Ultimate In Suspense
THE DAY OF THE JACKAL is a first-class movie about a professional assassin who is hired to kill Charles de Gaulle. The film is based on a novel by Frederick Forsyth whose books often reflect his earlier training as a journalist. Director Fred Zimmerman achieves almost the same effect with this movie which seems very much like a suspenseful documentary.
Edward Fox gives an excellent performance as the cold-blooded Jackal. Other members of the talented cast include Terence Alexander, Michel Auclair, Alan Badel, Tony Britton, Denis Carey and Adrian Cayla-Legrand.
THE DAY OF THE JACKAL was nominated in 1973 for an Oscar for Best Editing.
27 About The Jackal and Claude the detective
Both parts played by top line actors and thier performance proves it.The Jackal,smart,cool,sauve a top gun,Claude,a plodder,tired looking,dull dresser but a sharp mind and a network of friends around the world,as any good policeman has.The viewer must realize this is a time before DNA,computers or profilers,it is very labor intensive,watch Scotland Yard going through montains of records by hand to track down one of the Jackals aliasis.It also shows the distain some of committee members have because Claude is not of thier social class,but they can't operate without him.This is a top line detective story with suspense,and a look how a assassin thinks,he is not like a gangster hit man,he is more deadly,he only takes on real hard jobs any place in the world that pay lot of money,politics have nothing to do about it.So sit back and enjoy a old fashion detective at work before all the forensic sciences got into the picture like we see on TV almost every night.Remember there are guys like the Jackel still out there.
28 Absolutely Stunning!
This is one of the best suspense movies I've ever seen. Its simply mindblowing. The whole plot is so unbelievably complicated that you find it fascinating.
The fact is that its a true story and that makes it even more interesting. Edward Fox gives an outstanding performance as 'The Jackal', who's been hired to kill President Charles de Gaulle of France.
Its a must-see movie for anybody who's got even the slightest interst in suspense. You'll be surprised to find out how well the movie has been directed, and how great all the performances are.
29 Excellent, rare gem; intellectual-thriller
They don't make movies like this anymore. This movie was recommended to me over its remake "The Jackal". It started out slow, and odd-- a 1970's movie. It slowly picked up speed and became an intellectual masterpiece. We get to see a very smart crook from step one set up his plan to asasinate the president. We see how he covers his tracks; and how the authorities try to follow behind. It's PG for (surprise) frontal female and rear male nudity, implied sexual situations, subdued violence. The director very nicely leaves murders a lot to our imagination and doesn't show every detail of deaths or assaults. The real suspense didn't start for me until half way through the film. It built up more and more until quite a climax at the very end. What a fine job. Truely an "A" rate film.
30 Hard, cold and perfect
A great film adaptation of a great novel by Frederick Forsyth. The film, by Director Fred Zimmermann, is a cold, calculating look at the maneuverings of a professional shooter hired to assassinate Charles De Gaulle.
The mercurial Edward Fox plays the professional killer, codenamed Jackal. It is a great performance - a thinking reptile imitating a human being. His gaze is always flat and even, always regarding things in terms of strength and weakness, risk and reward.
This film is the thinking man's thriller, and the flat documentary style of the film only seems to add to the tension and believability. The great thing about this film is that it assumes a high level of intelligence and sophistication of the viewer. No splatter bags necessary here. The tension is watching a great performance by Fox, cutting like a thin, bright blade through a soft world.
31 time is ticking
This is a great thriller which keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. The way in which the assassin's route towards his intended victim is portrayed is riveting. Two things are especially noteworthy in the buildup of tension : one, the way the preparations (forging birth certificate, testing of hair dye, assembly of gun, etc.) are done without any background music, but only with very crisp noises; and two, the way clocks are being shown throughout, to indicate that time is ticking, for the killer, for the president, and also for the police inspector who is trying to catch the killer before he strikes. A classic !
32 Wonderful Suspense Thriller
"The Day of the Jackal" is a story about an assassin hired by dissident French patriots to kill Charles DeGaulle. Of course, we know he fails, but the buildup to the climax is extremely well-done. I echo those who say that you should see this film.
33 Jackal On Target!
This superlative movie has all the classic ingredients of a real thriller, without all the non-stop action, sex and explosions which typifies today's examples of this genre. The Jackal provides a classy alternative. The OAS were a group of rogue French Foreign Legioniers and other dissident military elements who were resentful of De Gaulle's pull-out from Algeria. We must recall that Algeria was the spiritual home of the Legion since its formation in 1831. Algeria was considered a part of metropolitan France, and held a status much higher than any other French colony. Coming on the heels of France's recent defeats in Indo-china the thought of losing Algeria as well to Moslem-Communist infleuences was unacceptable to many in the French military.
The OAS conducted many assassinations both inside Algeria and France itself. There were certainly many attempts to assassinate De Gaulle and it must be said that he had something of a charmed life. It is known that the OAS contracted a British assassin from within the Legion most likely who was code named "Jackal". He was given the paltry sum of 40,000 to make an assassination attempt on the French President. It is not known for sure whether he made any attempts or not. The book, upon which the movie is based takes the plot a step further and portrays a British assassin who is probably a lot more determined and competent than his historical counterpart was. While fact is often mixed with fiction here, the way this movie does it is not as irksome as many films do it today. The Jackal is believeable, and because we don't know for sure how far such attempts were made to get De Gaulle the plot tries to fill in the historical gaps.
France had recently gone through many turbulent years with recent humiliations from Nazi defeat in 1940, to Vichy colloboration, and to the loss of her colonies after the war which saw France reduced from premier status in the world. Such violent changes are bound to leave their conflicting marks on the politics of any nation. It is not surprising then that many in the French military wanted to reverse a series of steady defeats since 1940. Holding on to Algeria at all costs seemed the only way to do this. While the film does not go into the background politics which sets up the Jackal's scenario too much, we learn enough from the beginning of the movie to know why he has been hired to assassinate De Gaulle. Would the world have been a worse place had the OAS and Jackal succeeded? It's hard to say. Despite what some French might say, De Gaulle was really not a major player in the developing Cold War, nor was France a pivital nation in Euroepan politics anymore either. His death would certainly have hurt France's image even more, but its not likely it would have changed world politics that much. So in the end what we have with The Jackal is some classic suspence, good acting by all the players, and a story that does not dumb itself down like so many action thrillers today do. Jackal can be enjoyed without having to wince from excessive gore or violence. It also depicts a period in recent history which was quite unstable for France. Enjoy this movie, as they don't make them like this much anymore. The DVD version seems to have a clear print and has some interesting production notes as well.
34 Still one of the best
The Day of the Jackal is a prime example of an increasingly rare breed -- a subtle, low-key action film that is actually willing to respect the intelligence of its audience. (For evidence of how times have changed for the worse, just compare this film to its recent, star-driven remake.) Edward Fox plays the Jackal, a coolly efficient English assassin who is hired by Algerian terrorists to assassinate French President Charles DeGaulle. Using an almost documetary style, the film follows the Jackal as he prepares to kill DeGaulle while a French detective (Michael Lonsdale) fights against time to discover just who the Jackal actually is and stop him. It is a sign of the story's effectiveness that, even though the majority of the audience will (hopefully) be aware that DeGaulle ended his service as France's President without being killed, the film still manages to hold the viewer's attention in a mixture of heart-pounding suspense and fascination with watching such a realistic presentation of how a political assassination might very well had been pulled off. This isn't a short film but, clocking in at 2 and a half hours, it is never less than enthralling.
Director Fred Zinnemann wisely chose to eschew the trendy flashiness that was almost required of films made in the early '70s (and which has recently come back to marr so many contemporary action films) and instead emphasizes realism in both his action and his characters. As a result, the Jackal and his pursuer never engage in the type of unbelievable acts that have become the trademarks of other action stars. They are never more or less than recognizable human beings and that makes the film's story all the more enthralling. Instead of filling the film with audience-pleasing pyrotechnics, Zinnemann instead uses violence so carefully and so rarely that when the action does explode on screen, it has an immediate impact.
Zinnemann was always known as a brilliant director of actors and the performances in The Day of the Jackal (from a collection of reliable English and French character actors) are flawless. Though his character is usually overshadowed by the more charismatic Jackal, Lonsdale does a good job as the film's nominal "hero," making this anonymous detective into a sort of everyman. However, the film belongs to its title character and the actor who plays him, Edward Fox. Fox has been typecast as stuffy, aristocratic types so it is a bit of a revelation to see his performance here. He manages to perfectly convey the coldness of a man without a soul while, at the same time, providing glimpes of a neurotic intensity that would come from living a life that is centered totally and completely on death. Fox creates a sympathetic screen villian without ever allowing the Jackal to become Lecterized -- the viewer never forget that this is a killer and not a warm and cuddly guy with a few eccentricities.
The Day of the Jackal is a film that seems to be perenially underrated. Certainly, it runs counter to every instinct currently being displayed by the actions films coming out of Hollywood. Which is unfortunate because the current crop of Michael Bays and Simon Wests could stand to learn quite a few lessons from Fred Zinnemann and the Day of the Jackal.
35 cousinpaco's top action: #10
The coolest single scene in motion picture history: the Jackal target-practicing with his ultra-light sniper rifle.
The Jackal is a world-class assassin, hired to kill French president Charles de Gaulle. We watch him gather his tools, prepare for the assignment, and carry it out--all while being pursued by a dogged French detective who gets wind of the plot.
Chock full of intrigue, nail-biting suspense, and humor, "the Day of the Jackal" is no mere thriller or action movie.
This DVD doesn't contain many bonus features. It doesn't need to.
36 Don't overlook this excellent film.
Based on Frederic Forsyth's bestselling novel, this is one of those rare films that does justice to the book.
A dissident group within the French Army hire a professional killer to assasinate Charles DeGaulle. The French police and French intelligence are mobilised, but there's one problem, they have no idea who the hitman is or what he looks like.
The film is nicely paced and, while it's not laden with special effects, it has no trouble holding your attention. It's a tribute to Forsyth, the screenplay, and the director that, even though you know that DeGaulle was never assasinated, the suspense continues to build throughout the film right up to the end.
The picture and sound are only average at best, but the film rates highly enough that any flaws in this 30 year movie can be easily forgiven.
Highly recommended!! Just the right combination of suspense and action combined with an intelligent screenplay. Too rarely seen these days.
37 PERFECT TIME KILLER
The only problem of this film is that we all know how it will end.It's hard to think of a better time killer;i say this in a positive way.My favorite scene is near the end, when CHACAL acts like an old man who lost one leg which in fact hides his arsenal.Fans of director FRANCOIS TRUFFAUT will recognize MICHEL LONSDALE as the commissaire and in a supporting part PHILLIPE LEOTARD as a cop who informs the commissaire.DELPHINE SEYRIG ,who with LONSDALE played husband and wife in STOLEN KISSES, has a little role.We can support good movies like this anytime.
38 There Is No Comparison
This fine, riveting film is a thousand times better than that disjointed pile of schlock starring Demi Moore's ex-husband.
39 One of the Finest Suspense Films Ever Made
Fred Zinneman's adaptation of Fredrick Foresyth's classic "The Day of the Jackal" is in my mind one of the top 100 films ever made. The dialogue is crisp and clean, the characters unique and well acted and the plotline flawless. Set in the early 1960's, this crime thriller follows the exploits of "The Jackal" (Edward Fox), the most highly acclaimed assassin in the world. He has been hired by the OAS (an underground French freedom movement) to kill President Charles de Gaulle. Discovering the plot almost by accident, the French government enlists the services of Claude le Belle (Michael Londsdale), perhaps their finest police detective, to hunt down the Jackal before he can strike. The attention to detail, the planning and the ingenious detective work by the police are aweinspiring. The chase winds through France, Italy and England and the tension builds with every passing moment. A tense and startling climax puts an exclaimation point on this production that is sure to stand as the yard stick by which all subsequent thrillers are measrued. A must-see!
40 The Standard By Which Other Movies Are Judged
An intelligent, mature, thorough drama that asks the question: can an entire nation stop one man? It's a question that is increasingly relevent, and The Day of the Jackal is more modern in its way now than ever. But all that aside, it is a great film by its own merit, the best of its genre, and ultimately the film by which all others of its kind are judged. A gripping, brilliant classic that has gained with age.
41 A true classic
This movie has some excellent acting, a wonderfully tight plot, and some brilliant casting, superb direction... I could go on.
The movie is an assasination plot. Sure, we've seen so many of these in today's age. But this one is different. It is a serious plot, and is truly brilliant in its casting and direction. The expression of Lebel as he realises that he has to work round the clock, the expressions of anxiety, pressure, tiredness, excitement... and the pace of the movie keeps one riveted to the seat even if one knows the entire story beforehand by reading the book.
The film's strongest character is Fox, who plays the assassin. Cool, calm and collected, he is focused and decisive. He is ruthless and charming. He is cunning and meticulous. Fox has a toothy smile and his perfectly combed hair and his perfect attire make him the consummate Englishman. A lot of this films' directorial style and screenplay seems to have inspired another classic - The Fourth Protocol, where the whole Cat-and-mouse game is replayed. Fox plays the perfect professional killer - cold, methodical, planned and unremorsefully and ruthlessly committed to his goal.
The Day of the Jackal is a silent and terse film. The screenplay and the direction seem to show the same sense of urgency and focus within the plot, that the characters display in their own objectives.
If one has a collection of movies at home, this is one movie that demands its place. Definitely a treasure.
42 A Tour de Force
This is one great film- almost a tour de force. It is rare that a film comes off as good as the book it was adapted from, but in this case the film is just as good as its most excellent book 'The Day of the Jackal'.
After reading the very powerful Frederick Forsythe novel, and seeing this film was made in the 1960-1970's era, I was hopeful at best that the film would be somewhat as good as the book. But this film surpassed my best expectations and proves to be extremely effective and stylish even today. It has nothing of the dowdy or cheezyness of the 70's, nor the poor quality acting or production as one might fear. It was a very cutting-edge film, and still is today; it was very ahead of its time.
The story- that of a mysterious man hired to assissinate the French President Charles De Gaulle- while at the same time himself being hunted by top-notch government privates, is very exciting and effective here.
43 Perhaps the best 70s Crime/Spy Movie
Filmed on location throughout Europe this suspenseful movie maintains suspense right up to the last moment. 70s London, Paris, Italy and costal south of France never looked better.
44 This original version blows away the remake
With Hollywood producing a lot of ho-hum thrillers these days, turn to this refreshing entry for the same "holywood does anybody know this film rocks?" feeling as when you first discovered The French Connection, Three Days of Condor and The Ipcress File. The story construction moves along at a logical, rapid pace. Action, Reaction, Action, Reaction...ending with a splendid climax where the Hitman meets his demise. One cool way to watch the original back to back with the Richard Gere/Bruce Willis/Sidney Poitier flop. The modern flop leaves you with kind of a "Huh, what the heck was that?" reaction. For example, the scene where Willis blows away Jack Black's arm requires the same creativity as scraping ... matter from a shoe. The bottom line: the original version blows away the remake.
45 Absorbing, authentic, classic
This screen adaptation of Frederick Forsyth's novel is true to the novel but more importantly, a completely authentic, text-book account of stalking, terrorist and assasination tactics. Edward Fox's portrayal of the Jackal is completely believable. The Bruce Willis newly released version of this film is a but pale comparison that does not come close to matching the Edward Fox film's absolute suspense and authenticity. Despite it's age, the film's authenticity is so compelling that it is used today in certain government training programs focused on counter-terrorism tactics.
46 Nail biting political thriller with an ice cold assassin !
This tremendously entertaining film has lost none of it's impact in nearly 30 years. Fred Zinnemann's adaptation of the Frederick Forsythe thriller is compulsive viewing for fans of political thrillers, espionage and deadly assassins. Loosely based on events surrounding the French involement in Algeria in the 1950's, Forsythe penned his novel in only a few weeks and it shot to the top of the best seller list immediately....and attracted the movie makers with it's dynamic plot and complex characters.
Edward Fox created one the best killers EVER bought to the screen...Fox's character is dashing, debonair, charming and a ruthless assassin who is innovative, driven and exceptionally cold blooded. Where as we have become sorely accustomed to seeing current day movie assassins as highly testosteroned gorillas toting machine guns and loaded with lethal gadgets, Fox's suave, intelligent liquidator is streets ahead of any of them in his murderous portrayal. Michel Lonsdale (in probably his best role) is the intrepid and wily French police inspector who is given the invidious task of finding a faceless man who is on a single minded mission to kill President Charles DeGaulle.
Zinnemann never lets the pace slow up from start to finish. His excellent direction of this deadly game of "cat and mouse" is inventive, taut and brillianty staged. A first rate support cast of predominantly lesser known actors lend a superb authenticity to the feel of the story (Loved Cyril Cusack as the Jackal's expert gunsmith).
It would have been a bonus to have some insightful extras with this DVD, but alas there were none! Never to mind, "The Day of the Jackal" is A-class entertainment from beginning to end and belongs on the shelf of any devotee of stimulating and riveting thrillers...buy it now !
47 DOCUMENTARY-STYLE THRILLER & ONE OF THE BEST!
This is one of my all-time favorite suspense movies. In almost documentary-style, director Fred Zinnemann takes the viewer through a believable plot to assassinate French President de Gaulle by French ex-soldiers angry at his freeing Algeria from colonialist rule. We see the plotters and their assassin (an excellent and unforgettable Edward Fox), the inept government ministers and the wily detective they hire to find The Jackal who just happens to stay one step ahead of them. This movie combines history, suspense and sheer entertainment (even a little sex) without all the overdone explosions and violence we have to sit through in current thrillers of its type. Oh, there are quite a few dead bodies left in the Jackal's wake but most of this is done quickly or discreetly off-screen (a nice little touch is the lobster on the kitchen floor who gets a reprieve while the cook is offed). There is probably no cooler killer in the movies than the Jackal but even more than that, this movie works because it slowly builds to a neat climax with a surprising twist. My only complaint with the DVD is the lack of any special features (how about a short docu on the Algerian war that preceded independence?) but for intelligent and exciting entertainment this one is a real winner.
48 A suspense thriller for all seasons
This is the ultimate thinking person's thriller. Edward Fox plays "The Jackal," a mercenary hired by an ultra-right wing group that wants to assassinate President Charles deGaulle, who allegedly betrayed France by giving Algeria its independence. Edward Fox is perfect for the role. He is charming, cunning, very dangerous, and a master of disguises, continuously slipping in and out of other peoples' identities to achieve his ends. The French government's efforts to unmask and catch the Jackal, while he is constantly eluding them, is truly nail biting. By the conclusion of this very exciting film one cannot be certain whether the Jackal was really an Englishman, as was believed by the organization that hired him.
49 A first rate thriller about a plot to assassinate de Gaulle
Think of the problem here in terms of suspense: "The Day of the Jackal" is the story of meticulous hitman (Edward Fox) who is hired by disgruntled French generals to assassinate French President Charles de Gaulle. But we all know that de Gaulle was NOT assassinated, so how does this film achieve suspense? The answer is: extremely well. This is a superior thriller from the novel by Frederick Forsyth and directed by Fred Zinnemann ("High Noon"), who gives equal weight to the professional preparations of the assassin and the dogged efforts of the French detectives to run down the "Jackal." The audience is placed in the position of actually rooting for both sides as the story develops. The excellent cast includes Michel Lonsdale, Delphine Seyrig, Alan Badel, Cyril Cusack and Derek Jacobi. "The Day of the Jackal" offers an unforgettable conclusion in which you come to the moment you thought was impossible, as the Jackal finally gets de Gaulle in his sights.
50 Just Excellent
I simply love this film. What makes it great is that we follow the Jackal as he goes through every aspect of his planning to murder De Gaulle. And somehow, one finds themself wanting him to succeed. That is simply great writing to make the audience root for the bad guy. Highly recommended.
51 Enthralling!
This movie is simply amazing. I have read reviews of how it is "dated..." but I completely disagree. Last night, almost 30 years later, I watched this movie for the first time. Being a stundent that hasn't studied European History that well yet, I had no idea if he would be sucessful, which I think was a great advantage I have over other viewers who do know.
You feel as though you are right there while Fox (the professional assasin) does his job. My dad who rented and watched this with me read the book, and says Fox is exactly who he imanged the Jakal would be while he read the book. The detail and incredable lengths he goes to in order to get the job done is amazing, and completely believeable at the same time. His adversary, the detective, who's name eludes me at the moment is equally fit to the role. He is great. Most of the acting is.
I love the ending, and it reminds me quite a bit of Agatha Christie's endings. Speaking of her... the man who plays the detective would make a great Hecule Peroit... (I just had to mention that)
To sum this up... Rent it, buy it, borrow it... anyway you can see it, see it. It is a great film that will instantly become one of your favorites!
52 An Espionage Masterpiece
They really DON'T make 'em like this anymore. Edward Fox plays "The Jackal," an assassin hired by the OAS to kill Charles De Gaule. The entire film is a wonderful game of cat and mouse between the police and the extremely intelligent killer. What makes the Jackal so difficult to stop? No one knows his name, his nationality, or what he looks like. How do you begin to stop such a killer?
Edward Fox plays the Jackal as a sophisticated, highly intelligent killer that does not make mistakes. Watching him go through his job "routine" is amazing. We feel like we are actually watching and learning his secrets of the trade. On the other side, we see his adversary, every bit his equal: the detective in charge of the investigation. What makes the movie so fun to watch is the writing of these two characters. The detective is just as good at his job as the Jackal is at his. But will one of them make a crucial mistake, giving the advantage to the other?
"Day of the Jackal" has so many outstanding qualities because it was made by one of the great masters of film, Fred Zinnemann. This was Zinnemann's first film in seven years after a long line of great films. Many consider this his best. Every scene is very precisely planned, yet (as many have already mentioned) each scene looks as if it belongs in a documentary. A great story expertly handled.
I wish the DVD had a few more extras. Production notes are included, but audio commentary by Fox would have been a great addition. Also a film of this length (nearly 2 and 1/2 hours) should probably have more chapter divisions, having only about 14 or 15 as I remember. Still, these minor points can't bring down such a great suspense classic.
53 The Day of the Jackal
A magnificent film. It's one of those rare films where you have as much respect for the villan as you do the good guy. Fox is incredible as the Jackal and even though you knew the ending, ala Apollo 13, the intensity was there none the less. In my opinion, the best espionage film of all time.
54 Almost a documentary
I've seen this movie more than 15 years ago. The positive impression I had remained for all this time. And was reinforced after I saw it again yesterday. Not James Bond. Real. It has the film texture that "The Talented Mr. Ripley" tried to copy. This, the direction, camera movement on the streets makes you believe you're watching a documentary. Not all actors/acting is first rate, but this also add to the atmosphere of the movie. The real piŽce de resist‡nce is the plot. Ellaborate and precise. Such a plot deserved a higher production at the time, in my opinion. It seems that not everybody at the top of the studio believed this movie. After seeing it, rent (I said rent) the recent multimillion version of it, with Richard Gere and Bruce Willis. Well, maybe what made The Day Of The Jackal great was exactly the restricted money and the dedication of those behind it. As for the DVD, there's not too much to be said, except that the movie is great, hte video is fine, audio so and extras... what?
55 In my top 100 movies
What can I say, Day Of The Jackal is one of my favourites. Edward Fox is so damn likeable you want him to be the goody and win the day.
56 The Tale of a Shadow Assassin.
The Day of the Jackal is truly one of the great classic espionage films of the 20th Century. Edward Fox is the perfect fit as a British Assassin: A James Bond personality, and the heart as a cold, calculated, ruthless Mercenary, paid to assassinate General Charles de Gaulle. I have reviewed both The Day of the Jackal, and the new edition "The Jackal" with Bruce Willis, and I have to truly say that the older edition (Day of the Jackal) with Edward Fox is a much better and more richer film in terms of the script, the plot, the characters, and more specifically Edward Fox is a much better reflection of the true assassin that William Forsyth created in his novel-"A MUST SEE MOVIE".
57 Wow
What a movie. This isnt The Jackle There no Richard Gere atempting an irish acsent. This movie shows the cold hard life of a assasin. The ending is a Amazing. This is no happy ending. No one wins. This is great. Even if you dont like spy movies you will love this movie.
58 a textbook suspense thriller
This move was one of the best (if not the best) suspense thrillers ever made. The most moving aspect of this film was the realism of the assassin played by Edward Fox. Another reviewer wrote that there is a creepy feeling you get down the back of your neck when watching this guy in action. The only other characters playing professional hit men who've given me this type of feeling are Forrest Whitaker in "Ghost Dog: The Way of The Samurai" and Jean Reno in "The Professional". It takes a special breed of actors to play a good believable hit man and Bruce Willis is not one of them. When I saw the Movie "The Jackel" after seeing "The Day of the Jackel" I actually laughed at Bruce Willis.
59 Galvanizing
This is one of the very few films I couldn't pick out any flaws in! Completely riveting from start to finish. Extremely well acted by everyone, especially Michael Lonsdale (whom you might recognize as the villain Drax in "Moonraker"), and Edward Fox. Attention is paid to detail, and there is never anything that happens that struck me as contrived or unbelievable. Zinnemann took a slight risk by using little or no dialogue in some scenes, and having such a quick, abrupt ending, but these things work to the film's benefit. The entire movie is a tension filled story of how the Jackal prepares for his last, biggest, career-ending hit; the cops' ingenious methods of tracking him; and his equally ingenious ways of eluding them. Fox studied hard for this role, and it pays off for the viewer: he perfectly portrays the Jackal as an utterly uncaring, egocentric, extremely elusive and clever individual, as a person with this occupation would probably be. Lonsdale is just as fantastic; his character is always completely believable as a man who is continually stunned by the Jackal's elusiveness, yet he never gives up and doesn't show over- or underconfidence. I give this film 5 stars because it's not only flawless, but still rewards attentiveness after all these years. Magnificent performances like these never date.
60 Completely credible
The best political thriller ever made, comparable to, but better than, The Manchurian Candidate and All The President's Men. The story of an assassination attempt on Charles de Gaulle, the plot unfolds in such a way as to hold the viewer's interest throughout. The excellent performances by all concerned, the historical background introduced in the opening few minutes and the location filming create a riveting, masterful film. While we all know what the climax must be, it is in doubt to the very last instant.
As an added bonus, you can catch Derek Jacobi, in what must be one of his earliest film roles, before his I, Claudius and Brother Cadfael fame.
Highly recommended. An all-time favourite!
61 One of the best films ever!
This adaption of Frederick Forsyth's bestselling novel is one of the best films ever.
It is about a plot by the OAS to kill President Charles De Gaulle using a mysterious killer who is played by Edward Fox. He is known as the Jackal and is hunted across France by the French authorities. Fox is excellent as the cold blooded killer and the cast also includes Eric Porter as Col.Marc Rodin and Cyril Cusack as the gunsmith.
If you haven't seen this film then I advise you to see it as soon as possible,because it is one of the best films ever!
62 Badly Dated
There is a patince to the proceedongs of The Day of The Jackal that is wonderfful to watch. The film, like it should, starts slowly and build on layers of plot to an exciting trans-continental chase. Today most thrillers would go for a cheap quick thrill like getting a character shot in the face or having a limb blown off, but Zimmerman wisely avoids this preffering to build on Phycological suspense. Alas, despite these qualites, the film has dated terribly. All the charcters, regardless of nationality speak the same language, and while I don't particularly care for realism in movies, I felt it to be essential here. The acting is universally stiff and one sided. It is understandable that Edward Fox should be constantly smiling, a sign of villany in all modern films, but unlike say, the opening scenes of The Crying Game there is no human intensity to the proceedings. Its all calculated and cold. I understand why this film recieved raves on release, but sadly it just doesn't measure up today. Having said that, I would rather watch this film ten times in a row, with eyelids taped open Clockwork Orange style than see ten minutes of the truly miserable Micheal Caton Jones remake The Jackal.
63 Directors take note
The movie producers and directors of today should be required to watch this film before putting out anymore garbage. If today's movies had even one tenth the suspense and intelligence of this movie, then there would be a vast improvement. The young people of today don't know what they're missing. The Day of the Jackal is on my top ten list.
64 A perfect suspense thriller from another era
Without question the suspense, character development, cinematography and scopy of this thriller make it one of the best...ever. Firstly, The jackal is played with icy perfection. Second the Chief Inspector, an equally enigmatic individual is his perfect counterpart. Their cat and mouse game, played amidst a Europe which has since been all but completely spoiled is a wonderful piece of film. I especially enjoyed the thoroughness of Zinneman's adaptation of a captivating novel and especially the sight of all those Citroen DSs...of which I am an owner. For a Francophile, a Europhile, a Citroeniste and a pure Movie fan this is the way they used to be made....well.
65 This movie is a must buy!!
Compared to modern films, this film is very simple. No gimmicks or any other tricks movie makers use now. But this film is terrific the way it is and thoroughly enjoyable. As much as I like a modern action flick or Bruce Willis movie, the remake (The Jackal) pales in comparison. This movie is excellant!!!!
66 Edward Fox in the all time best thriller
In the 1960s President Charles de Gaulle was a hated man among the career officers of the French army, because he (De Gaulle) was willing to give independence to one of the most important colonies of France, Algeria. This would have been a great blow to the French army's prestige which had fough for years against the guerillas in Algeria.
This story tells how a conspiracy against the life of president de Gaulle developes. A ring of officers try to kill de Gaulle a number of times and always fail. Then when their leader is captured and shot they turn to a specialist, the Jackal.
If you are seeking a thriller, here's the best.
67 A Classic...
I saw this movie when I was younger and every chance I get to see it again I do. This movie deserves to be placed in the Top 100 list. It is by far a better movie than the recent remake by Bruce and company. The actor was more believable as the assassin than Bruce. During this movie, the creepy feeling up the back of your neck when you saw this guy stayed with you. Bruce generated an air of "o.k." One can't help but compare the two. Standing them side by side, they really don't compare because the directors took different directions. This is not a bad thing, but I prefer the classic.
68 NOW THAT'S A THRILLER!
First of all, DO NOT, repeat, DO NOT dare to even compare "The Day of the Jackal" with the Bruce Willis fiasco you've seen recently on theatres!
This is the original, the one and only, the based-on-the-Forsyth-bestseller masterpiece! A truer-to-life thriller -or a more exciting one- you ain't gonna get. Not only the historical background makes it so much more interesting, the characters, locations, narration and pace are top notch! Edward Fox relishes his role of a lifetime as the suave British killer without any blazing gunbattles, car chases, goring bloodfests, profanities or macho rantings that supposedly "spice up" movies nowadays.
Just compare this golden oldie with it's 1998 abominable remake, to comprehend why "less is more" is always wise!
69 Best film of a Forsyth novel.
As an avid Frederick Forsyth fan I have collected all of the movies made of his novels. "The Day of the Jackal" is by far the best adaptation. Take care of all your important duties before your sit down to watch this one. You won't want to leave your seat. Excellent performances, particularly by Edward Fox and Michel Lonsdale, make this "edge of your seat" thriller totally believable. Those who lived through the tumultuous sixties will appreciate both the villians and heros in this fine film. Those who did not may learn a bit about our universal paranoia during this period of political and social upheaval. Enjoy and learn
70 If you like it on VHS, you'll love it on DVD !
I have watched my VHS copy many, many times. But seeing the movie in widescreen, and with all the details that gives atmosphere to this brilliant story was really great !
71 Wonderful
The Day of the Jackal is very realistic. It is superbly written, directed, and acted. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!
72 Just Wonderful.
"The Day of the Jackel" not to be confused with the inferior remake "The Jackel", is a marvelous character study of the coldest, coolest, most illusive and highly skilled assassin ever brought to the silver screen. With a superior cast headed by Edward Fox, and an outstanding script, this movie plunges the viewer in a riveting cat-and-mouse manhunt.
No, this movie doesn't have explosions and car chases, but what it does have is intelligence and suspense. The tension builds wonderfully as the Jackel, a man of brilliant disguises, nears his prey (Charles de Gaulle) with the intrepid constable a step behind.
Rent it or buy it, but for heaven sakes, see it! Between 1 and 10, "The Day of the Jackel" gets a 10.
As far as the remake, "The Jackel", in and of itself, it isn't really a bad film, it has just been modernized and adulterated with gadgets in lieu of a believable script.
73 Better than the book!
Normally, when I read the book and see the movie (or vice-versa), I prefer the book. Even "good" movies don't, in my opinion at least, capture all that the print version offers. But... I'll make an exception for "Day of the jackal"!
This is a sleek, exciting, well done film. Even though you know the "Jackal" will ultimately fail in his quest, you'll still enjoy this one immensely. I saw it when it was released in 1973 and I've seen it many, many times since, and it's still fun to watch. Edward Fox as the Jackal and Michel Lonsdale as the detective are great, as is everyone else in this ensemble cast. For fun, try playing "Spot the actor" before you see the credits; many well known French and British actors appear in small roles.
74 AMAZON HAS WRONG REVIEWS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS MOVIE!!
THE AMAZON REVIEW AND VIDEO DESCRIPTION BELONG TO THE BRUCE WILLIS "JACKAL", NOT TO THIS VERSION, THE ORIGINAL "DAY OF THE JACKAL"
75 Impressively precise plot in a historic setting, outstanding
Zinneman's gifted movie is based on Frederick Forsyth's bestseller. The movie follows an assasination attempt on the life of French president De Gaul. The plot follows the events with a minute by minute precision that gradually builds up the tension. The hitman and a brilliant albeit awkward detective match wits without meeting each other up until the last moment. We follow every move of the hitman, and gradually become able to understand his actions. The hitman works with the precision of an architect. The international cast led by Edward Fox and Michael Lonsdale is outstanding. The director matches the precision of the hitman by choosing just the right characters even for supporting roles and brief appearances. The music playing in the backround captures the atmosphere of several European countries, cities and settings with remarkable authenticity. We can feel as if we were in a French flea market, an Italian farmers' market, or a Turkish spa in Paris. Brilliant direction. One of the best movies of its kind, a true classic.
76 An all time classic thriller!
Edward Fox is a chilling casting as the ruthless assassin in this masterful thriller from "High Noon" director Zinneman. The characters are pretty cardboard, but for once this is a blessing rather than a hinderance as the script and director do not waste time in characterisation that would only put your spoil the tension that is maintained throughout, dispite pre-determined knowledge of the outcome. What is incrediable is the fact that your sympathy is channel towards the nasty bad guy! The all time greatest assassination thriller.
77 It just like the Jackal
I first saw the movie the Jackal and then I saw this movie. I loved this movie. If you loved this movie you should see the Jackal.
78 Couldn't turn away!
This is what suspence movies are all about. I personally was rooting for the Jackal to at least escape. An excellent replay movie where you notice things that you missed the first time. Along with "3 Days Of The Condor" this is one of the best intrigue movies made.
79 This movie is one of the best old movies I've ever seen
The day of the jackal is problably the most interesting story for a long time because there problably isn't such a man like the jackal but there could be one , and Forsyth does a brilliant story about a man who is an assassain and how he plans to assassinate the president of France.
80 EXCELLENT MOVIE By anyday standards! This movie ROCKS!
The previous reviewer must not have watched this movie and to compare it to that crap that Bruce Willis did last year is comical. This movie has mega suspense and the assassin (Fox) is one of the coolest killers to ever grace the big screen. Bruce Willis was a joke trying to recreate this character, no wonder Forsyth didnt want anything to do with the remake. This is why every critic in America gave it 1 star, Ebert called it "The worst movie of the year". If you want to be entertained and pleasantly surprised, BUY this movie. You will love it. The book was great, the movie is better.
81 This is the original, great assassination thriller.
This is an absorbing, large-scale methodical telling of an assassination story. It is not the lousy remake. Amazon.com will sell more copies of this DVD if they figure out which descriptions match which version of the film, and move it out of the comedy category into thrillers. This is perhaps the most confused entry I've found in the Amazon.com DVD catalog.
82 A study of intrigue as it was in the 1960's
Altough this film has a plausible and entertaining storyline, it is a whimsical and naive tale of intrigue for the modern viewer. The story deals with a plot by French political terrorists who are so inept at assasination that they must hire a "professional" killer from Britain to do their work. Action scenes are blissfuly innocent by today's standards, with the villain dispatching people with one "judo chop" or trying to use a single shot .22 magnum rifle as an assasination weapon. As a background for the much more plausible and exciting remake ("The Jackal" with Bruce Willis and Richard Gere) it is an interesting historical study. END
