# The Day of the Jackal

> 1973 film by Fred Zinnemann

**Wikidata**: [Q901140](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q901140)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Day_of_the_Jackal_(film))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/the-day-of-the-jackal-q901140

## Summary
*The Day of the Jackal* is a 1973 political thriller film directed by Fred Zinnemann, based on Frederick Forsyth's novel of the same name. It is renowned for its suspenseful storytelling and meticulous depiction of an assassination plot against French President Charles de Gaulle.

## Key Facts
- **Title**: *The Day of the Jackal*
- **Release Year**: 1973
- **Director**: Fred Zinnemann
- **Genre**: Political thriller, drama film
- **Based on**: Frederick Forsyth's 1971 novel *The Day of the Jackal*
- **Production Companies**: John Woolf Productions, The Rank Organisation
- **Distributor**: Universal Pictures
- **Runtime**: 143 minutes
- **Language**: English
- **Country of Origin**: United Kingdom, France
- **IMDb Rating**: 7.9/10
- **Rotten Tomatoes Score**: 91%
- **Metacritic Score**: 80/100
- **Box Office**: Approximately $16 million (1973)
- **Awards**: Nominated for the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Motion Picture (1974)
- **Notable Cast**: Edward Fox (as the Jackal), Michel Lonsdale, Alan Badel, Tony Britton
- **Cinematography**: Jean Tourneur
- **Music**: Georges Delerue
- **Editing**: Ralph Kemplen
- **Screenplay**: Kenneth Ross
- **Release Dates**:
  - May 16, 1973 (France)
  - June 15, 1973 (United Kingdom)
  - July 13, 1973 (United States)
  - Various other dates in 1973–1974 for international releases
- **Filming Locations**: France, United Kingdom, Italy
- **Budget**: Estimated $3 million
- **Aspect Ratio**: 1.85:1
- **Sound Mix**: Mono
- **Color**: Color (Technicolor)
- **Certification**: Rated PG in the United States, 15 in the United Kingdom
- **Legacy**: Considered one of the greatest political thrillers of all time; influenced subsequent films in the genre

## FAQs
### What is *The Day of the Jackal* about?
*The Day of the Jackal* is a political thriller that follows a professional assassin, codenamed "the Jackal," who is hired to kill French President Charles de Gaulle. The film meticulously details the Jackal's preparations and the efforts of French authorities to stop him.

### Who directed *The Day of the Jackal*?
The film was directed by Fred Zinnemann, an Austrian-born filmmaker known for his work on critically acclaimed films such as *High Noon* and *A Man for All Seasons*.

### What is the significance of *The Day of the Jackal* in cinema?
*The Day of the Jackal* is regarded as a landmark in the political thriller genre. Its realistic portrayal of an assassination plot and the cat-and-mouse game between the assassin and law enforcement set a new standard for suspense films.

### Who are the main actors in *The Day of the Jackal*?
The film stars Edward Fox as the Jackal, Michel Lonsdale as the French detective Claude Lebel, and Alan Badel as the French minister. The cast also includes Tony Britton and Cyril Cusack in supporting roles.

### How was *The Day of the Jackal* received by critics?
The film was critically acclaimed upon its release, praised for its suspenseful narrative, direction, and performances. It holds a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 80/100.

### What awards did *The Day of the Jackal* win or receive nominations for?
*The Day of the Jackal* was nominated for the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Motion Picture in 1974, recognizing its outstanding contribution to the mystery and suspense genre.

### Where was *The Day of the Jackal* filmed?
The film was shot on location in France, the United Kingdom, and Italy, adding authenticity to its depiction of the assassination plot and the pursuit of the Jackal.

### What is the runtime of *The Day of the Jackal*?
The film has a runtime of 143 minutes, allowing for a detailed and immersive storytelling experience.

### What is the budget and box office performance of *The Day of the Jackal*?
The film was made on an estimated budget of $3 million and grossed approximately $16 million at the box office, making it a commercial success.

### What is the certification rating of *The Day of the Jackal*?
In the United States, the film is rated PG (Parental Guidance Suggested), while in the United Kingdom, it is rated 15, indicating it is suitable for viewers aged 15 and older.

## Why It Matters
*The Day of the Jackal* is a seminal work in the political thriller genre, setting a benchmark for suspense and realism in cinema. Its meticulous attention to detail, from the assassin's preparations to the investigative efforts of law enforcement, creates a gripping narrative that has influenced countless films and television shows. The film's exploration of themes such as political assassination, surveillance, and the cat-and-mouse dynamic between criminal and authority resonates with audiences and remains relevant in discussions of security and espionage. By blending factual elements with fictional storytelling, *The Day of the Jackal* offers a compelling glimpse into the complexities of political intrigue and the lengths to which individuals and governments will go to achieve their objectives. Its enduring legacy is evident in its continued acclaim and its impact on the thriller genre.

## Notable For
- **Genre-Defining Film**: *The Day of the Jackal* is widely regarded as one of the greatest political thrillers ever made, setting a high standard for suspense and realism in cinema.
- **Critical Acclaim**: The film received widespread praise from critics, earning high ratings on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic.
- **Award Nominations**: It was nominated for the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Motion Picture, highlighting its excellence in the mystery and suspense genre.
- **Influential Director**: Directed by Fred Zinnemann, a renowned filmmaker known for his work on other critically acclaimed films such as *High Noon* and *A Man for All Seasons*.
- **Authentic Locations**: Filmed on location in France, the United Kingdom, and Italy, adding a layer of realism to the story.
- **Meticulous Storytelling**: The film's detailed portrayal of the assassination plot and the investigative process has been praised for its accuracy and suspense.
- **Box Office Success**: Despite a modest budget of $3 million, the film grossed approximately $16 million, making it a commercial success.
- **Cultural Impact**: *The Day of the Jackal* has influenced numerous subsequent films and television shows in the thriller genre, cementing its place in cinematic history.
- **Iconic Performances**: The film features standout performances from Edward Fox as the Jackal and Michel Lonsdale as the detective Claude Lebel.
- **Historical Context**: The film's plot, centered around an assassination attempt on Charles de Gaulle, is rooted in real historical events, adding depth and relevance to the story.

## Body
### Overview
*The Day of the Jackal* is a 1973 political thriller film directed by Fred Zinnemann and based on Frederick Forsyth's 1971 novel of the same name. The film follows the story of a professional assassin, known only as the Jackal, who is hired by a French paramilitary organization to kill President Charles de Gaulle. The narrative alternates between the Jackal's meticulous preparations and the efforts of French authorities, led by detective Claude Lebel, to identify and stop him.

### Production
The film was produced by John Woolf Productions and The Rank Organisation, with Universal Pictures handling distribution. The production budget was approximately $3 million, a modest sum that allowed for extensive location shooting in France, the United Kingdom, and Italy. The film's cinematography was handled by Jean Tourneur, with music composed by Georges Delerue and editing by Ralph Kemplen. The screenplay was adapted by Kenneth Ross, who faithfully translated Forsyth's novel into a gripping cinematic experience.

### Cast and Characters
- **Edward Fox** as the Jackal: A professional assassin hired to kill Charles de Gaulle. Fox's portrayal of the Jackal is noted for its cold, calculated demeanor and meticulous attention to detail.
- **Michel Lonsdale** as Claude Lebel: A French detective tasked with uncovering the Jackal's identity and stopping the assassination plot. Lonsdale's performance adds depth to the character, showcasing the determination and intelligence of the investigator.
- **Alan Badel** as the French Minister: A high-ranking official involved in the investigation and the political implications of the assassination plot.
- **Tony Britton** as Inspector Thomas: A British police officer who assists in the investigation, providing a cross-border perspective on the case.
- **Cyril Cusack** as the Gunsmith: A character who provides the Jackal with the necessary weapons for the assassination, adding a layer of realism to the plot.

### Plot Summary
The film begins with the failed assassination attempts on Charles de Gaulle by the OAS (Organisation Armée Secrète), a French paramilitary group opposed to de Gaulle's policies. Frustrated by their repeated failures, the OAS hires a professional assassin known as the Jackal to carry out the task. The Jackal, a meticulous and methodical killer, begins his preparations, which include obtaining a false identity, acquiring specialized weapons, and planning the assassination in detail.

Meanwhile, French authorities, led by detective Claude Lebel, become aware of the plot and begin their own investigation. Lebel's team works tirelessly to uncover the Jackal's identity and track his movements, leading to a tense cat-and-mouse game between the assassin and the authorities. The film's climax involves a dramatic confrontation as the Jackal attempts to carry out his mission, with Lebel and his team racing against time to stop him.

### Themes and Style
*The Day of the Jackal* explores themes of political assassination, surveillance, and the moral complexities of law enforcement. The film's style is characterized by its realistic portrayal of the assassination plot, with a focus on the meticulous planning and execution of the Jackal's mission. The tension between the assassin and the authorities is heightened by the film's use of suspenseful music, tight editing, and authentic locations.

### Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, *The Day of the Jackal* was met with critical acclaim. Critics praised the film's suspenseful narrative, direction, and performances, particularly those of Edward Fox and Michel Lonsdale. The film holds a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 80/100, reflecting its enduring popularity and influence.

The film's legacy extends beyond its initial release, with numerous subsequent films and television shows drawing inspiration from its plot and style. *The Day of the Jackal* is often cited as a benchmark for the political thriller genre, influencing works such as *The Bourne Identity* and *Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy*.

### Awards and Nominations
*The Day of the Jackal* was nominated for the Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Motion Picture in 1974, recognizing its outstanding contribution to the mystery and suspense genre. While it did not win the award, the nomination underscored the film's critical acclaim and its impact on the thriller genre.

### Technical Details
- **Runtime**: 143 minutes
- **Aspect Ratio**: 1.85:1
- **Sound Mix**: Mono
- **Color**: Color (Technicolor)
- **Certification**: Rated PG in the United States, 15 in the United Kingdom
- **Release Dates**: The film was released in various countries throughout 1973 and 1974, with premieres in France, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

### Cultural Impact
*The Day of the Jackal* has had a significant cultural impact, influencing not only subsequent films but also discussions about political assassination and security. The film's realistic portrayal of the assassination plot and the investigative process has made it a reference point for both filmmakers and audiences interested in the thriller genre. Its exploration of themes such as surveillance, political intrigue, and the cat-and-mouse dynamic between criminal and authority continues to resonate with viewers.

### Related Works
- **Novel**: *The Day of the Jackal* by Frederick Forsyth (1971)
- **Director's Other Works**: *High Noon* (1952), *From Here to Eternity* (1953), *A Man for All Seasons* (1966)
- **Genre Influences**: *The Bourne Identity* (2002), *Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy* (2011), *The Parallax View* (1974)

### Conclusion
*The Day of the Jackal* remains a landmark in the political thriller genre, celebrated for its suspenseful storytelling, realistic portrayal of an assassination plot, and the cat-and-mouse dynamic between the assassin and law enforcement. Its enduring legacy is evident in its continued acclaim and its influence on subsequent films and television shows. The film's exploration of themes such as political intrigue, surveillance, and moral complexity continues to captivate audiences and inspire filmmakers.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0069947/)
2. [Source](http://stopklatka.pl/film/dzien-szakala)
3. [Source](http://www.the-numbers.com/movie/Day-of-the-Jackal-The)
4. [Source](http://www.filmaffinity.com/es/film522691.html)
5. [Source](http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0069947/fullcredits)
6. Česko-Slovenská filmová databáze
7. The Movie Database
8. The Day of the Jackal. Rotten Tomatoes
9. [Source](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0069947/releaseinfo)
10. [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0069947/releaseinfo)
11. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
12. [Source](http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0069947/locations?ref_=tt_dt_dt)
13. Kinopoisk
14. [Source](https://www.kijkwijzer.nl/films/day-of-the-jackal-the/)
15. terjesztesre_kerulo_filmalkotasok_nyilvantartasa.xlsx
16. List of film licenses issued from 1945 to 2020
17. [Source](https://www.eirin.jp/list/index.php?s_year=2013&s_month=3&e_year=2013&e_month=3&pageID=2)
18. [Source](https://www.cnc.fr/professionnels/visas-et-classification/39990)
19. mymovies.it
20. [Source](https://ui.eidr.org/view/content?id=10.5240/D6E9-9CD9-1114-80EA-1189-X)
21. [Source](https://www.acmi.net.au/works/94108)
22. TheTVDB
23. Trakt.tv
24. FilmVandaag.nl