The Jackal, released in theaters on Nov. 14, 1997, is a tense, high-stakes political thriller and a loose remake of the 1973 film The Day of the Jackal. It is a gripping cat-and-mouse game centered on the relentless pursuit of a master assassin whose true identity and methods are shrouded in mystery.
The plot kicks off after a joint American-Russian operation results in the death of a prominent Russian Mafia boss. In retaliation, the Russian organization hires “The Jackal” (Bruce Willis), a ghost-like figure known only for his utter reliability and massive fee, to execute a high-profile assassination on American soil.
His target is initially unknown, driving the law enforcement agencies into a panic.
To stop a killer they cannot identify, the FBI and the Russian MVD are forced into an uneasy alliance.
Deputy Director Carter Preston (Sidney Poitier) and Major Valentina Koslova (Diane Venora) realize they have only one hope: recruiting Declan Mulqueen (Richard Gere), an imprisoned, former IRA sniper who previously crossed paths with The Jackal. Mulqueen is released on the condition that he helps track his nemesis.
The core conflict is a thrilling race against time, as Mulqueen, aided by an old associate, Isabella Zanconia (Mathilda May), attempts to predict The Jackal’s next move while the assassin prepares his highly sophisticated, technologically advanced weapon for the hit.
The film is driven by the dynamic contrast between its two leading men: Willis, playing against type as the cold, constantly transforming killer, and Gere, portraying the seasoned but captive operative.
The supporting cast adds crucial weight, with J.K. Simmons and Richard Lineback as the key FBI agents assisting Poitier.
Jack Black appears in a memorable technical role, contributing to the chilling preparation of The Jackal’s weapon.
Michael Caton-Jones (Memphis Belle, Doc Hollywood, City By the Sea) directed the film.
Richard Gere and Sidney Poitier in The Jackal (Photo/Universal Pictures)
Reception for The Jackal
The Jackal grossed $15.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office.
The film would gross $159.3 million worldwide.
Legacy
The legacy of The Jackal is defined by its strong performances and its procedural deep dive into the logistics of international assassination.
While it takes liberties with the original source material, it remains a suspenseful action film that trades on the paranoia and uncertainty of modern counter-terrorism. The film is a taut, engaging study of two professionals locked in a battle of wits and experience.
