It all began in a manner familiar to many screenwriters - with a call from a producer. Three years ago, during the pandemic, Gareth Neame, CEO of Carnival Films, reached out, asking if the author would consider adapting Frederick Forsyth's 1971 novel. It was to be a contemporary reimagining, not a remake. This approach flattered the author, leading them to sit down that night and rewatch Fred Zinnemann's 1973 film adaptation. When considering any offer, the author always asks themselves four crucial questions: is it interesting, does it feel substantial, can they bring something to the project, and will they get along with the producers?

Developing for Screen: The Long Journey Ahead

Developing anything for the screen is likely to take at least a couple of years, and often longer. As a writer, one needs to be sure of long-term support. The author also weighs the chances of a project actually getting made. Getting paid to write a script is nice, but nothing is guaranteed. Finally, proper payment is essential as it's how screenwriters make a living.

Initial Considerations

The author was already a fan of the novel and Zinnemann's adaptation. They had worked with Gareth before, knowing him to be calm, consistent, and passionate about storytelling and filmmaking. So, what were the chances of this project getting made? In today's IP-driven world, studios tend to play it safe with familiar material. But "The Day of the Jackal" was a classy piece of IP, giving some hope. Once the deal was agreed, it was time to dig in.

Inspiration from Real Events

Forsyth's story is inspired by real events in 1960s France when the OAS attempted to assassinate President Charles de Gaulle. The plot failed, and the OAS hired a professional assassin known as the Jackal. We follow the Jackal's meticulous preparations and enjoy watching a professional at work. He's not just a sniper but an actor who deceives and manipulates. Though we shouldn't side with him, his determination makes us root for him.

Adapting to the Digital Age

Written over 50 years ago, the novel is analog, while we live in a digital world. This rules out some of the Jackal's tricks. For example, in one sequence, he used a bureaucratic loophole to obtain a passport. But today, such a thing is not possible. The author had to find alternative ways for the Jackal to showcase his skills. After stripping out the details and context, they focused on the core story.

Opening the Show

The novel and film start with the OAS's failed attempt on de Gaulle's life. But the author wanted to open with the Jackal himself. A throwaway line in the novel about the Jackal assassinating Rafael Trujillo gave the idea. The opening set-piece would grab the audience's attention and reveal the Jackal's cunning.

Principal Characters

In the novel and film, the Jackal is an enigma. The author initially considered keeping him that way. But after discussions with Gareth and his team, they decided to show the Jackal's hidden side. Eddie Redmayne plays the Jackal, combining ruthlessness with vulnerability.For the target, after much thought and suggestions from others, they chose Ulle Dag Charles (UDC), played by Khalid Abdalla. UDC is a tech bro with ambitious plans that could damage the super-rich. Creating UDC allowed the author to comment on the world we live in.The Jackal is pursued by British and French police and intelligence agents. In the original, crucial information was obtained through torture. The author wanted to make the antagonist more complex. Bianca, played by Lashana Lynch, is an outsider like Lebel. She's just as ruthless as the Jackal in her pursuit.

Writing the Pilot

Once the opening and principal characters were in place, the author could write the pilot. After several drafts and edits, the script was ready. Sky and Peacock quickly ordered a full season. Eddie Redmayne's commitment to the role was remarkable. He worked with voice and movement coaches to get the accents and intonations right.Throughout the development and production process, the author was aware of potential criticism but had to stay true to their vision. It was an honour to write the show and work with so many talented people."The Day of the Jackal" is now streaming on Sky Atlantic and Now TV.