The ninth episode of The Day of the Jackal's first season, unfolds with a tense prelude in the heart of Croatia, where the elusive Jackal meticulously observes the maritime traffic around an island, his mind racing with the impending River launch and the slim window it presents for his mission's completion. As the pressure mounts, the Jackal's focus is shattered by the arrival of Leonore, who underscores the urgency of their situation, setting the stage for a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
In Split, the Jackal's desperation grows as he grapples with the challenge of infiltrating the UDC. The need for the perfect disguise becomes paramount, and as he strategizes, the specter of Nuria watching him via the baby monitor adds a layer of domestic tension to his already fraught existence. Nuria's confrontation with her husband is a pivotal moment, stripping away the facade of their relationship and forcing the Jackal to confess his true profession as a professional killer. This revelation, while shocking, oddly solidifies their bond, suggesting a path forward based on brutal honesty.
The plot thickens as Nuria's brother Alvero introduces a wildcard in the form of Jimmy TeJero, a Cuban gangster with whom he hopes to establish a business partnership. This development poses a new threat to the Jackal's plans, and his calm, composed response to Nuria's concerns is a testament to his unflappable nature. The Jackal's resolution to this issue is as ruthless as it is ingenious, eliminating Jimmy with a drone strike during a boat ride, showcasing his resourcefulness and lethal precision.
Meanwhile, Bianca's relentless pursuit of the truth leads her to Captain Mike Baldwin, a man haunted by his past and ravaged by lung cancer. Bianca's direct approach yields limited results but introduces Gary Cobb as a potential key to unlocking the mystery surrounding Douggan. Her determination to continue the investigation, even in the face of Isabel's decision to close the case, highlights Bianca's tenacity and willingness to operate beyond the boundaries of her role.
Bianca's conversation with OC reveals a man shaken and eager to distance himself from the case, raising suspicions about external influences, possibly from Carver. With her options dwindling, Bianca turns to Paul, allowing herself a moment of vulnerability as she admits to missing him and seeks to mend their marriage. However, Paul's skepticism about her motives creates a tense dynamic, which is further complicated by Bianca's professional instincts kicking in upon hearing news of a sniper's kill shot, linking it to the Jackal's modus operandi.
As the episode reaches its climax, the Jackal returns to Split, setting up a sniper drone at sea in a tense standoff with UDC. A Code Red alert is sounded as UDC's security is breached, and despite his best efforts to evade the Jackal's sights by staying underwater, UDC ultimately meets his end. The Jackal's escape is not unimpeded, as he finds himself pursued by others, adding a layer of uncertainty to his future.
"Croatian Crossfire" is a masterclass in suspense, weaving a complex tapestry of personal and professional conflicts. It delves deep into the psyche of the Jackal, revealing the human cost of his profession, while simultaneously ratcheting up the stakes for Bianca in her quest for justice. The episode leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, eager for the resolution of the Jackal's mission and the fate of those entangled in his web of deceit.