Eddie Redmayne is stepping into a completely different type of role in The Day of the Jackal. Fans of Fantastic Beasts or Les Miserables may be curious about this series, but it’s important to ask if it is appropriate for younger viewers.
Based on the first few episodes, this isn’t a family-friendly story. Let’s explore the content, the reasons behind its TV-MA rating, and whether it’s a good fit for older teens or strictly for adults.
While the 1973 movie was rated PG, the Peacock series has a TV-MA rating. This means it’s recommended for viewers aged 18 and older. Let’s break down the reasons for this rating.
Though the show primarily revolves around suspense and action, there are romantic undertones. The Jackal is shown to have a wife, which opens up room for some intimate moments. The first episodes don’t feature explicit scenes, but there are suggestive elements that parents might want to consider.
Is The Day of the Jackal suitable for kids?
The series is a modern take on the story from the 1973 movie and the original novel. It centers around a skilled and mysterious assassin who takes on high-paying jobs, regardless of who the target is. The show focuses on the intense game of cat-and-mouse between the assassin, known as The Jackal, and an MI6 agent, Bianca.
From the very beginning, violence takes center stage. Here’s what you can expect:
- The Jackal opens fire in a building, with clear body shots and blood splatters.
- A character is shot in the back of the head, with the camera lingering on the aftermath.
- The life of a hitman is portrayed in graphic detail, emphasizing the brutal reality of his job.
The show also includes car chases and other action-packed sequences, with violence often depicted in creative and intense ways.
Strong language is another reason for the mature rating.
- The F-word is used frequently by various characters.
- Other curse words like the S-word and B-word appear often, alongside some British swears like “bloody.”
Interestingly, The Jackal himself rarely swears, maintaining his composure to match his calculated personality.
There are occasional scenes involving alcohol, typically as characters unwind after stressful events. In one scene, a character appears to suffer a drug overdose while in a prison cell, adding to the show’s gritty tone.
Older teens who can handle intense violence and mature themes might find this series engaging. However, it’s not appropriate for younger viewers, especially those who loved Eddie Redmayne’s work in Fantastic Beasts. Parents should note that this show is heavy on dark themes, focusing on the morally ambiguous world of assassins and law enforcement.
Eddie Redmayne’s performance marks a significant departure from his usual quirky or dramatic roles. Here, he brings a darker, more menacing energy to the screen. The show dives deep into the psychological aspects of his character, offering a fresh perspective on his acting range.
If you’re a fan of suspenseful thrillers with intense action, The Day of the Jackal is worth watching once the little ones are asleep. Its gripping storyline and Redmayne’s transformation into a darker character make it a standout in the thriller genre.
The Day of the Jackal is a bold and gritty series that explores the life of an assassin in a mature, unfiltered way. While Eddie Redmayne’s fans may be excited to see him in a new light, this show is not for kids. With its heavy violence, strong language, and mature themes, it’s best suited for adult viewers or older teens who can handle its intensity.
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