Review of The Day of the Jackal (1973) by Delmar T — 22 Jun 2013

Zinneman is a three time Oscar winner - twice for best director, once for best documentary short subject. But nowhere - not in High Noon, not A Man for All Seasons - is his considerable talent more evident than here, in The Day of the Jackal (a film which did not even secure him a nomination).

While perhaps not his greatest film - in that the story is told for the story's own sake, possessing few (if any) of the deeply fascinating philosophical, ethical or theological implications many of his other works hold - it is certainly his most perfect, with every scene cut and shot exquisitely and Edward Fox delivering a truly chilling performance as a ruthless assassin, who disguises his cold blooded nature behind a veneer of English charm and sophistication.

There are complaints that it is long and boring, but honestly, I could not disagree more. The suspense is taught, the story brilliantly engaging - from one of the greatest literary thrillers of all time comes one of the greatest cinematic thrillers of all time.

Five stars and a place among my all time favourites - this is one for the ages.