"Zero Day" is a six-part political thriller on Netflix whose inefficiencies in storytelling are all the more glaring when compared to other Netflix originals like "The Recruit" and "Night Agent". Despite having a star-studded cast led by the reputable Robert De Niro, the narrative falls short of expectations with a seemingly nonsensical plot that desperately seeks to be perceived as both serious and credible.
In the series, De Niro plays the role of George Mullen, a celebrated nonpartisan president of the United States. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that the show ventures into absurdity with the introduction of scenes like a one-minute-long nationwide blackout followed by a mass alert announcing: “THIS WILL HAPPEN AGAIN”.
The plot is further convoluted with the introduction of a nonpartisan investigative commission led by George to prevent a similar catastrophe. But things take a darker turn as signs of George’s deteriorating mental health, depicted through memory gaps and auditory hallucinations, surface.
In an attempt to present a realistic narrative, the show incorporates characters resembling present-day figures and nods towards current political scenarios. Yet despite its grounded references and obvious allusions, the series fails to express deeper insights and falls short of any profound commentary on our divisive political landscape, technological dependency, or the impacts of surrendering our freedoms.
The production value of "Zero Day" cannot be dismissed with Lesli Linka Glatter executing all six episodes. Yet, the series' pacing and lack of character development work against it. Coupled with a cryptic and open-ended conclusion, the narrative leaves audiences unexcited about a possible continuation of the series. Despite its noteworthy cast, Zero Day fails to offer a compelling and well-structured narrative, undermining its plausibility and overall appeal.
