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The Day of the Jackal (1973)

Rate: 7
Viewed: 12/12

12/12: I read the book The Day of the Jackal over a decade ago and remember it as a thrilling novel but with disappointing ending.

Of course, I wanted the Jackal to succeed but couldn't accept the implausibilities in the progress made by the detectives to capture him. For some reason, I never saw the picture until now.

Although not a faithful adaptation of the book by Frederick Forsyth, everything is well done. Edward Fox is perfect as the Jackal. The high level of realism that's maintained throughout pays off dividends. However, I prefer the characters to speak French instead of English. I've been hoping for a remedy by allowing the Jackal to succeed. Once again, it's the same disappointing ending.

In the meantime, there are two problems. One, why is the Jackal stupid to use cards to get around Europe? I understand the first entry, but the rest of the way? He should've disguished himself as a homeless man, and he'll still reach his objective. Instead, he leaves off a paper trail that eventually becomes his undoing. Two, which occurs at the ending, is the lack of a revolver. Have it ready at hand, so the Jackal can kill anyone who gets in his way. I expected more from a professional assassin.

All in all, get the ending right, and The Day of the Jackal will play better.

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