Zero Day Review: Robert De Niro Stars in Netflix Thriller

Image credits: Photo: Jojo Whilden/JOJO WHILDEN/NETFLIX © 2024

Robert De Niro stars as George Mullen in Zero Day, a six-part Netflix series that marks his first starring role in a television show. The series follows Mullen, a former president of the United States, as he investigates a cyberattack that shuts down all communications and power in the US for one minute. The attack, dubbed "Zero Day," leaves thousands of Americans unable to access basic services and displays a menacing message on cell phones across the country.

The series boasts a prestige cast, including Angela Bassett, Jesse Plemons, and Connie Britton, and explores themes of politics, power, and corruption. However, despite its promising premise, Zero Day ultimately falls flat due to its lazy worldbuilding and lackluster plot. The show's attempts to tackle complex issues like American polarization and the consequences of a massive cyberattack are admirable, but its execution is marred by poor writing and a lack of genuine political convictions.

One of the most significant problems with Zero Day is its handling of character development. Despite a talented cast, the characters feel underutilized and lack depth. De Niro's performance as George Mullen is particularly disappointing, given his reputation as a skilled actor. The show's reliance on conspiracy theories and political intrigue is also problematic, as it often prioritizes style over substance. The series' use of technological themes, such as hacking and cyberattacks, is similarly underwhelming, and its portrayal of these issues feels simplistic and unrealistic.

Overall, Zero Day is a missed opportunity to explore the complexities of politics and power in a meaningful way. Despite its promising premise and talented cast, the series is ultimately let down by its poor writing and lackluster execution. If you're looking for a compelling and thought-provoking thriller, you may want to look elsewhere. Here are some key points to consider:

• Zero Day is a six-part Netflix series starring Robert De Niro as George Mullen, a former president of the United States.
• The series explores the aftermath of a devastating cyberattack on the US and features a prestige cast, including Angela Bassett and Jesse Plemons.
• Despite its promising premise, Zero Day falls flat due to its lazy worldbuilding and lackluster plot.
• The show's handling of character development is poor, and the characters feel underutilized and lack depth.
• The series' use of technological themes, such as hacking and cyberattacks, is simplistic and unrealistic.

In conclusion, while Zero Day has some interesting ideas and a talented cast, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling and thought-provoking thriller. If you're a fan of Robert De Niro or are interested in politics and power, you may still find some value in watching the series. However, be prepared for a lackluster plot and poor character development.