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An elite hitman nicknamed Jackal (Eddie Redmayne), known for his intelligence and skill, is tasked with a high-flying mission: to take down a controversial political figure. Before him, Bianca Pullman (Lashana Lynch), an MI6 agent and weapons expert, is determined to stop this threat. Adapted from Frederick Forsyth’s iconic novel, this contemporary thriller plunges you into a spectacular race across Europe amid lies, disguises and explosive confrontations.
Jackal, TV series created by Ronan Bennett with Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, Ursula Corbero… Episodes watched: 3 of 10
who is he with
Jackal’s casting is one of the series’ strengths, supported by solid performances. Eddie Redmayne, in the title role, plays a chameleon assassin who can blend into any identity (and any language) through disguises and subtle actions. His interpretation oscillates between calculated coldness and disturbing humanity, making the character as endearing as it is troubling.
Opposite her, Lashana Lynch plays Bianca Pullman, an MI6 agent with unwavering determination. Already familiar with his spy roles in No Time to Die, he brings an emotional intensity here as he navigates his complicated family life and dangerous mission.
Along with them, Ursula Corbero – from Electric Tokyo’s La Casa de Papel – brings Spanish fire to a secondary but crucial role, adding mystery and vulnerability. Finally, the supporting roles, well defined, enhance the dense and realistic world of the series, be it Bianca’s colleagues at MI6 or Jackal’s enemies.
is it worth watching
Parallels with the James Bond and Mission Impossible sagas can be seen from the first episode: sophisticated gadgets, picturesque European landscapes and impeccably choreographed action sequences. However, the series is distinguished by darker realism and unexpected psychological depth. The heroes are not stereotypical characters: they are flawed, torn between their mission and their personal lives.
Bianca, for example, embodies a fascinating duality: fierce professional but often absent mother and wife. Rather, the jackal reveals the human flaws behind his cold and calculating exterior, making his motivations complex and ambiguous. He doesn’t just kill people with his bare hands, he has a life. But what motivates him in this particular activity?

An omnipresent tension, but an uneven story at times
From the very first moments, Jackal sets up a fascinating tension. The opening scene, where Eddie Redmayne looks incredible in a stunning disguise, sets the tone: every detail is important, every movement is calibrated. This meticulousness is found throughout the series, where the confrontation between the Jackal and Bianca takes on the air of a game of chess, with each character trying to predict the other’s next move.
Where the series excels is in its constant play with audience expectations. Every investigation progress, every mission is turned upside down. Redmayne and Lynch, faultless in their roles, inspire an energy that transcends the story’s structural weaknesses, which sometimes suffer from a slow pace.
Their characters, though rivals, share a common obsession with their mission, which makes for a really interesting psychological dynamic. They are, in a sense, two sides of the same coin.

An imperfect but awesome series
Jackal doesn’t reinvent the spy thriller genre, but revives it with a more human and nuanced approach. Suspense fans will find what they’re looking for, despite the narrative slowdown. With convincing performances and a really polished production, this modern adaptation is worth a detour, especially for those looking for an entertaining and spectacular series. So shall we watch? Yes, without hesitation, especially with 2 seasons on the horizon.
The first five episodes of Jackal are currently available on Prime Video, with the next five coming online on Friday 13 December.
Source: Allocine

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.