Netflix’s Zero Day takes a familiar premise of a global cyberattack and runs with it, offering both a gripping narrative and a star-studded ensemble. The miniseries, created by Eric Newman and Noah Oppenheim, dives deep into the chaos that ensues after a devastating cyberattack leaves the country in a state of panic. As the government scrambles to track down those responsible, former U.S. President George Mullen, played by Robert De Niro, is called back from retirement to head the Zero Day Commission, tasked with finding the perpetrators behind the attack. However, the more he digs, the murkier the waters become—tangled by disinformation, political agendas, and Mullen’s own buried secrets.
At the heart of Zero Day is a performance by De Niro that reminds us why he remains one of the finest actors of his generation.
His portrayal of George Mullen—a man struggling to come to terms with his past and the very crisis he’s now leading—is nuanced and captivating. Angela Bassett, as the current President Evelyn Mitchell, is equally magnetic. Bassett’s fierce presence pairs beautifully with De Niro’s more restrained performance, making their interactions a standout. Watching these two powerhouse actors together is a sheer pleasure, and their dynamic adds depth to an already intense political thriller.
The rest of the ensemble cast is equally impressive, with Jesse Plemons as Mullen’s trusted former aide, Roger, standing out for his subtle but powerful portrayal. Lizzy Caplan, Joan Allen, Connie Britton, Matthew Modine, and the others all contribute to the tense atmosphere, with each actor adding layers to a world where trust is a rare commodity and no one is as they seem.
Directed by Lesli Linka Glatter across all six episodes, Zero Day excels in its pacing and tension-building. The storytelling is sharp, and while the premise of a cyberattack triggering global chaos is not a new one, the series takes enough risks to remain engaging. The exploration of government and corporate power, especially in the wake of misinformation and political infighting, gives the show a timely edge, echoing the current era of digital warfare and fake news.
As the story unfolds, the twists and turns come fast, ensuring that there’s always something to keep the audience on their toes.
There’s an undeniable sense of paranoia that runs through the series—how much of what we’re told is the truth? Who’s really pulling the strings behind the scenes? While the concept of shadow organizations and covert government operations may feel familiar to fans of this genre, Zero Day does enough to breathe new life into the trope.
The cyberattack itself is just the backdrop, the catalyst for much larger questions of morality, trust, and ambition. At its core, the series is about power—how it’s wielded, who controls it, and what happens when that power is used for personal gain at the expense of the greater good. Mullen’s quest to uncover the truth takes on a deeply personal tone as he finds himself questioning everything, including his own role in the crisis.
In short, Zero Day is a well-executed thriller that benefits from a fantastic cast, smart writing, and a timely narrative. The performances are all top-notch, and the suspenseful plot is sure to keep viewers hooked. While it may not break entirely new ground in terms of concept, the show’s twists and character-driven storylines make it an addictive watch. If you're a fan of high-stakes political dramas with a tech twist, Zero Day is a must-see.
For me, personally, it was a real treat to see De Niro and Bassett share the screen together, and the entire ensemble brings something special to this high-octane thriller. The tension is palpable, and the stakes feel real. Zero Day isn't just about the aftermath of a cyberattack—it’s a reflection on the dangers of misinformation, the fragility of truth, and the dark side of power.
All episodes of Zero Day are now streaming on Netflix.
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