A new Netflix series, “Zero Day”, has arrived with a timely plot that delves into the complexities of American politics and technology. The show revolves around Robert De Niro as George Mullen, a former president tasked with leading an ad hoc agency to investigate a cyberattack that crippled major communications and electrical grids for exactly one minute, resulting in thousands of deaths.
As Mullen navigates this high-stakes investigation and mounting civic unrest, he must also contend with his own mental health issues. The series attempts to explore the tensions between extremism on both sides and presents a call for sanity amidst the chaos. However, its message often feels forced and lacks nuance.
The show boasts an impressive cast, including Joan Allen, Lizzie Caplan, Connie Britton, and Angela Bassett. While they deliver strong performances, their characters’ complexities are sometimes overshadowed by the need to convey the show’s central theme.
“Zero Day” struggles to balance its many plot threads and sometimes resorts to platitudes that feel out of place in today’s fast-paced world. Despite its flaws, the series remains engaging, with a steady pace over six episodes. De Niro brings gravity to his role, but even he can’t elevate the character’s blandness, which is intentionally presented as a symbol of centrist values.
Ultimately, “Zero Day” feels like a show aimed at a specific audience, one that wants to be swayed by familiar, comforting messages about America’s past and purpose. However, its failure to engage with contemporary issues and nuance may limit its appeal for some viewers.
Source: https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/story/zero-day-robert-deniro-netflix-review