The Day of the Jackal Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video's Blu-ray release of "The Day of the Jackal" marks an impressive high-definition debut for the classic film, presented in a 1080p AVC-encoded transfer within its original 1.85:1 theatrical aspect ratio. The remastering by NBC Universal, leveraging a 35mm interpositive and restored at R3store Studios, achieves a commendable balance of clarity and detail. The presentation brings out excellent fine details, visible even in nuanced elements like the ribbed interior of a briefcase or the delicate downy hair on Edward Fox's cheeks. The overall look is quite natural, with an organic layer of grain that enhances the film's authenticity.

The technical aspects of this video presentation are notable, with a largely consistent and filmic appearance, though there is some variability in the grain field, which can occasionally affect clarity in darker scenes. Despite this, the color scheme remains true to the film's original intent, featuring a muted palette that emphasizes its documentary-style feel while allowing natural colors to subtly permeate through excellent location work. There are no significant issues with compression artifacts or image damage, making this Blu-ray iteration easily the best version available to date, barring a potential future 4K remaster.

In summary, Arrow Video has provided a highly satisfying visual experience for "The Day of the Jackal" on Blu-ray. The transfer's fine detail and texture highlight the film's rich aesthetic while maintaining an authentic grain structure. Minor grain variability aside, this release stands as a definitive presentation likely to appeal to both casual viewers and dedicated videophiles alike.

The Blu Ray audio presentation of "The Day of the Jackal" features a lossless LPCM 1.0 mono track that faithfully preserves the original soundtrack. This track delivers strong, clear dialogue across English, French, and Italian, ensuring intelligibility throughout. The effects are restrained yet effective, designed to complement the atmospheric nature of the film. From dynamic sequences like the initial assassination attempt filled with revving engines and sub-machine-gun fire to more tranquil scenes featuring bustling crowds and road traffic, the sound design supports the film's narrative seamlessly.

The score by Georges Delerue is used sparingly, often becoming almost non-existent to enhance the documentary style of the film. Notably, in the opening sequence, an intriguingly eerie combination of what could be an autoharp or hammered dulcimer with tremolo strings sets an anticipatory tone that abruptly shifts when the music pauses, adding a unique layer to the viewing experience. High fidelity is maintained throughout, with no noticeable issues such as distortion or dropouts. While the audio track does not possess the grandeur required for a demonstration-worthy mark, it serves its purpose excellently, providing an organic and immersive aural experience consistent with the film's intent.

Arrow's Blu-ray release of "The Day of the Jackal" shines with its audiovisual quality but falters in the extras department, offering a blend of moderately informative content. The primary feature of the extras is a 36-minute interview with author Neil Sinyard, delivering deep insights into the film and director Fred Zinnemann, albeit with a spoiler warning. Additionally, two brief archival snippets from 1972 provide some nostalgic value, including behind-the-scenes footage and an interview with Zinnemann. The package is rounded off by a theatrical trailer and a nicely produced collectible booklet, complemented by reversible cover art.

Extras included in this disc:

• In the Marksman's Eye: Author Neil Sinyard discusses the film and director Fred Zinnemann.
• Location Report: Archival footage from 1972 showing the film being shot.
• Fred Zinnemann Interview: Archival video from 1972.
• Theatrical Trailer: High-definition trailer for the film.

"The Day of the Jackal," directed by Fred Zinnemann, is an exemplary assassination thriller that redefined the genre with its meticulous attention to detail and near-documentary approach. Adapted from Frederick Forsyth's novel, the film juxtaposes real historical events with a fictitious yet gripping narrative about the OAS's relentless pursuit of French President Charles de Gaulle. Edward Fox delivers a career-defining performance as "The Jackal," a cold, calculating assassin whose operations are thoroughly documented, from weapon preparation to escape routes. Michel Lonsdale complements him perfectly as the tenacious detective dedicated to thwarting his plans. Zinnemann's decision to focus largely on the assassin's preparation rather than the investigatory efforts creates a unique tension, making audiences involuntarily root for the protagonist’s criminal ingenuity.

Set against the turbulent backdrop of the 1960s, marred by political assassinations, Zinnemann's film underscores the era's palpable anxiety. The film opens with a concise historical overview, situating viewers in the fraught period when de Gaulle’s controversial decision to free Algeria led to a bloody, albeit unsuccessful, assassination attempt by the OAS. This meticulous setup lays the groundwork for a high-stakes thriller where knowledge of historical outcomes does little to dampen the suspense. Fox's Jackal is both extraordinarily suave and chillingly ruthless, dispatching obstacles with dispassionate efficiency. His interactions lend the film an unsettling edge, compounded by the richly detailed procedural elements that reveal his vast planning acumen.

Visually, "The Day of the Jackal" benefits immensely from on-location shooting across Paris, providing an authentic and immersive backdrop. Zinnemann’s precise direction ensures that even well-trodden plot mechanics remain fresh and engrossing, culminating in a high-octane climax. The film’s success lies in its ability to engage viewers through intricate storytelling and compelling performances while maintaining an air of inevitability regarding the historical outcome. This Blu-ray release ensures that Zinnemann’s masterpiece remains a vital study in cinematic tension and expertly orchestrated suspense.

Arrow's Region B-locked Blu-ray release of "The Day of the Jackal" offers an impressive UK high definition debut for this textbook assassination thriller. The film, directed by Fred Zinnemann, retains a rare intensity throughout, created by skillful direction and stellar performances, even though viewers may already know the ultimate outcome. The location photography stands out, contributing to the suspense and atmosphere of this masterpiece.

From a technical perspective, Arrow has delivered an excellent video presentation. The visual quality is crisp and clear, preserving the film’s original cinematic essence, while the audio provides a strong and immersive experience. Though the extras package may not be extensive, it is well-curated, offering meaningful supplementary content that enhances the overall value of this Blu-ray edition.

In conclusion, "The Day of the Jackal" on Blu-ray by Arrow is highly recommended. It is a remarkable assassination thriller that combines superb acting, effective location shots, and adept direction to maintain suspense despite a predictable end. The Blu-ray's strong technical attributes and thoughtful extras make it a worthy addition to any film enthusiast's collection.