The Fascination with Hit Men and Assassins: Black Doves and The Day of the Jackal

The idea of hitmen has always been a captivating subject in pop culture, and this winter we are seeing it play out on our screens in a big way. In the Netflix series Black Doves, we are introduced to Sam, a hit man who only takes out those he deems deserving. Alongside him is Helen, played by Keira Knightley, who is also part of Black Doves, a spy organization that seems to specialize in carrying out hits for drug dealers.

Meanwhile, over on Peacock, Eddie Redmayne portrays Alex in The Day of the Jackal, a remake of Frederick Forsyth’s novel. Alex is a sniper known for his precision and disguises, but he also longs for a normal family life in his cliffside villa in Spain. But as we know with these types of stories, peace never lasts, and there is always a price to pay for the dangerous jobs these characters undertake.

It seems that the allure of hitmen in entertainment has even spilled over into real life recently, following the identification and capture of the killer of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. While many speculated whether this person was a professional, experts have assured us that the murder was too risky and careless to be the work of a true hitman. The killer’s resemblance to characters we see in popular shows and movies has also been noted, making some hesitant to believe that anyone would turn them in.

In Black Doves, the story weaves together elements of power, revenge, and deception. Helen, played by Knightley, is a complex character who effortlessly balances her roles as a political wife and a vengeful agent. Her deep portrayal of grief, revenge, and charm adds layers to her character, making her a force to be reckoned with.

Both Sam and Helen have personal lives that are impacted by their dangerous professions, adding depth and emotion to the series. Sam’s longing for his ex and Helen’s desire for revenge create a compelling emotional core that drives the story forward.

The portrayal of hitmen in these shows captures elements of humanity, sacrifice, and loyalty, making for engaging and thrilling entertainment that keeps viewers coming back for more. As we delve deeper into these characters’ lives, we are reminded of the complexities of good and evil, and the blurred lines that exist in the world of espionage and assassination.