Eddie Redmayne’s TV Remake Of 1973 Thriller Debuts With Strong Rotten Tomatoes Score

The Day of the Jackal debuts with a strong Rotten Tomatoes score. Based on the 1971 Frederick Forsyth novel of the same name, which was previously adapted into the 1973 film, the new series is set against a modern political backdrop and follows the titular British assassin and a tenacious intelligence officer who tracks him down in a thrilling game of cat-and-mouse across Europe. The show stars Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch in the lead roles alongside a supporting cast that includes Úrsula Corberó, Charles Dance, Richard Dormer, Chukwudi Iwuji, Khalid Abdalla, Eleanor Matsuura, and Kate Dickie.

Now, following the show’s premiere on Peacock, Eddie Redmayne’s TV remake of the 1973 thriller has debuted with a strong Rotten Tomatoes score. The Day of the Jackal has debuted to an 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes with nine reviews from critics, which could fluctuate as more come in. With fewer than 50 ratings, the show doesn’t yet qualify for an audience score.

What The Day Of The Jackal’s Rotten Tomatoes Score Means For The Show

It’s Strong, But Is It Better Than The Original 1973 Thriller?

The Day of the Jackal debuting a strong 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes means that early reviews from critics are skewing very positively. Critics are praising the series for its suspenseful pacing, solid performances, and sleek execution, especially Eddie Redmayne’s captivating portrayal of the ruthless British assassin known as the Jackal. While it may lack the lasting impact of the original film and is stretched thin in a few places, it remains an engaging and tense thriller with some thoughtful modern updates.

However, the show’s 89% Rotten Tomatoes debut doesn’t surpass the original movie’s 91%, begging the question of whether another adaptation was truly necessary. The original film was praised for its precision, suspense, and Fred Zinnemann’s controlled direction, though some critics felt it lacked emotional depth. Based on the early reviews, the new series adaptation appears to enhance the character development, update the story for a modern audience, and improve upon the original movie’s cool detachment.

Our Take On The Day Of The Jackal’s Rotten Tomatoes Score

It’s Unable To Truly Separate Itself

While The Day of the Jackal‘s Rotten Tomatoes score is strong due to its positive early reviews, it’s difficult to argue that it’s a significant improvement over the original 1973 movie. Despite some solid performances, modern updates, and improved character development, the series seems unable to surpass the taut tension and timeless precision of the classic film. In turn, The Day of the Jackal series will likely be shrugged off by audiences as an unnecessary remake rather than something really worth watching.

Source: Rotten Tomatoes