By Anthony Caruso
Zero Day, Netflix's 2025 political thriller miniseries, delivers a gripping narrative that resonates with contemporary societal concerns. Created by Eric Newman, Noah Oppenheim, and Michael Schmidt, and directed by Lesli Linka Glatter, the six-episode series stands out as a compelling addition to the genre.
The series centers on Robert De Niro's George Mullen, a former U.S. president who is called out of retirement to lead an investigation into a catastrophic cyberattack that cripples the nation's infrastructure. As Mullen delves deeper, he confronts complex issues of national security, personal ethics, and the pervasive influence of misinformation. The narrative intricately weaves themes of political intrigue and personal sacrifice, reflecting the precarious balance between civil liberties and national safety.
Robert De Niro's portrayal of George Mullen is both commanding and nuanced, capturing the internal and external struggles of a leader facing unprecedented challenges. The ensemble cast, featuring Lizzy Caplan as Mullen's estranged daughter Alexandra, Jesse Plemons as the dedicated aide Roger Carlson, Joan Allen as former First Lady Sheila Mullen, and Angela Bassett as President Evelyn Mitchell, delivers exceptional performances that enrich the series' depth and emotional resonance. Each actor brings a distinct presence, contributing to the show's dynamic and engaging character interactions.
Zero Day excels in presenting a tense, action-packed narrative that mirrors current global anxieties surrounding cyber warfare and political instability. The series effectively explores the fragility of modern infrastructures and the potential chaos stemming from their disruption. Its timely subject matter and realistic portrayal of a nation in crisis offer a chilling reminder of contemporary vulnerabilities. Its excellent execution provides a thought-provoking experience that challenges viewers to consider the complexities of truth, power, and governance in the digital age.
Zero Day stands as a testament to the potency of well-crafted political thrillers in today's entertainment landscape. Its combination of a stellar cast, timely themes, and engaging plotlines makes it a standout series that prompts reflection on the delicate balance between security and liberty. For viewers seeking a thought-provoking. exhilarating, and downright entertaining experience, Zero Day is a commendable choice.