Netflix has made waves with the release of its new political thriller, 'Zero Day,' which premiered on February 20, 2025. The series, featuring legendary actor Robert De Niro, explores the intersection of cybersecurity, political intrigue, and personal turmoil.
Set against the backdrop of America’s divided political climate, 'Zero Day' introduces audiences to George Mullen, portrayed by De Niro. Mullen, once the President of the United States, is drawn out of retirement by current President Evelyn Mitchell, played by Angela Bassett, to lead the Zero Day Commission after a catastrophic cyberattack leaves thousands dead and the country on the brink of chaos. "We started writing it many years ago, but the themes have become more powerful over time," shared Noah Oppenheim, one of the show's co-creators.
The series consists of six episodes, establishing its format as a miniseries, with each episode running approximately 45 to 60 minutes. This allows for intense, fast-paced storytelling which has garnered immediate attention, quickly rising to the number one spot on Netflix’s viewing charts across several countries, including Mexico.
Alongside De Niro, the ensemble cast includes Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, Connie Britton, Dan Stevens, and Matthew Modine—all of whom deliver powerful performances drawn from complex characters. The dynamic between Mullen and Mitchell highlights the tension of leadership during times of crisis, capturing the ethical dilemmas faced by political figures when the nation’s security is at stake.
Critical reception has varied, with some praising the gripping narrative and others critiquing its ambitious thematic aspirations. Despite the mixed reviews, the show’s timely subject matter resonates with viewers concerned about the future of democracy and the role of technology. The series dives deep, exploring how far individuals might be willing to go for what they believe is patriotic, including the sacrifices of personal freedoms. "This is the perfect strange and rare melody to be inside George Mullen's head," remarked Eric Newman, another co-creator, when discussing the show's introspective scenes.
George Mullen's character is layered, struggling with mental health issues exacerbated by the traumatic events surrounding the cyberattack and his son’s tragic overdose. The eerie repetition of the song “Who Killed Bambi?” by the Sex Pistols symbolizes Mullen's mental deterioration, adding depth to his psychological battle. This nuanced portrayal showcases De Niro, who at 81, shines as both actor and executive producer, marking his first significant role on television.
Director Lesli Linka Glatter notes the series' focus on perspective, stating: "Seeing the world as George does at this moment is absolutely key to the storytelling." This lens provides viewers with insights not just on political maneuvering, but also on the personal conflicts faced by leaders during crises.
The discussion surrounding 'Zero Day' continues as its open-ended finale leaves viewers speculating about potential future storylines, even though it is intended as a self-contained miniseries. The narrative tackles pressing issues like misinformation and the delicate balance of power between technology, government, and the populace, echoing fears and concerns felt widely across contemporary society.
With its gripping plot and compelling performances, 'Zero Day' invites viewers to reflect on their own beliefs about governance, security, and the moral dilemmas entwined within. It serves as both entertainment and cautionary tale, echoing the sentiments of our times as it navigates the murky waters of trust and power. The series is likely to leave its mark on the transformation of political drama on screens today, and with De Niro reclaiming his role as a leading dramatic force, fans are eager to see where this exploration leads next.