The highly anticipated Netflix series “Zero Day” has finally arrived, boasting an impressive ensemble cast, including Robert De Niro, Angela Bassett, and Jesse Plemons. However, despite its star power, the show fails to deliver on its promise of a gripping and thought-provoking thriller.
Created by Eric Newman, Noah Oppenheim, and Michael Schmidt, “Zero Day” is a six-episode limited series that attempts to tackle the complex and timely topic of cyber attacks and their far-reaching consequences. Unfortunately, the show’s convoluted plot, lackluster characters, and inaccurate portrayal of modern politics make it a disappointing and unfulfilling watch.
At the center of the show is Robert De Niro, who plays former President George Mullen, a beloved politician who is called back into service after a devastating cyber attack paralyzes the country. De Niro brings his signature gravitas and talent to the role, but even his presence can’t save the show from its overall lack of depth and nuance.
The plot of “Zero Day” is overly complicated, with too many characters and subplots that fail to intersect in meaningful ways. The show’s attempt to create a sense of urgency and tension falls flat, with long stretches of boring exposition and unengaging dialogue.
One of the biggest problems with “Zero Day” is its inaccurate portrayal of modern politics. The show’s depiction of a former president being given sweeping powers to investigate a cyber attack is unrealistic and raises serious questions about the show’s understanding of the US Constitution and the separation of powers.
The supporting cast, which includes Angela Bassett as President Evelyn Mitchell and Jesse Plemons as a mysterious hacker, is wasted in underwritten roles that fail to give them much to do. Even the talented Lizzy Caplan, who plays Mullen’s daughter and a congresswoman, is given a thankless role that adds little to the overall story.
Despite its many flaws, “Zero Day” does raise some important questions about the vulnerability of our digital infrastructure and the need for greater cybersecurity measures. However, the show’s failure to engage with these issues in a meaningful way makes it feel like a missed opportunity.
In addition to its narrative shortcomings, “Zero Day” also suffers from poor pacing and a lack of tension. The show’s six episodes feel overly long, with too much repetitive exposition and not enough action. The show’s attempt to create suspense and tension falls flat, with too many predictable plot twists and not enough surprises.
Furthermore, “Zero Day” also fails to deliver on its promise of a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of technology and politics. The show’s portrayal of cybersecurity and hacking is simplistic and inaccurate, and its exploration of the implications of cyber attacks on modern society is shallow and unconvincing.
Overall, “Zero Day” is a disappointing and unfulfilling thriller that fails to deliver on its promise of a gripping and thought-provoking story. Despite its star-studded cast, the show’s convoluted plot, lackluster characters, and inaccurate portrayal of modern politics make it a skippable watch.
In conclusion, “Zero Day” is a missed opportunity to explore the complex and timely topic of cyber attacks and their far-reaching consequences. With a more focused narrative, better-developed characters, and a greater attention to detail, “Zero Day” could have been a compelling and thought-provoking thriller. Unfortunately, it falls short of its potential, leaving viewers underwhelmed and unimpressed.