Robert De Niro shines in Netflix’s gripping political thriller ‘Zero Day’

The world of television has gained a new heavyweight with Robert De Niro taking on his first major TV role in Netflix’s six-episode political thriller, "Zero Day." A gripping blend of conspiracy, suspense, and political drama, the series is set against the backdrop of a tech-obsessed America that thrives on misinformation and paranoia. Despite some narrative missteps, De Niro’s commanding performance ensures that "Zero Day" remains a compelling watch.

De Niro steps into the role of George Mullen, a widely respected former U.S. president who is pulled out of retirement by current President Evelyn Mitchell, portrayed by the formidable Angela Bassett. America finds itself under siege after a mysterious cyberattack cripples critical infrastructure, leading to mass casualties and widespread chaos. As panic spreads, ominous digital warnings promise further destruction.

In a move reminiscent of post-9/11 security overhauls, Mitchell assigns Mullen to lead the Zero Day Commission, an entity granted sweeping authority to track down the perpetrators, even at the cost of civil liberties. While no explicit party affiliations are mentioned, the series cleverly invites viewers to speculate on the political undertones of its characters and plot.

The pedigree behind "Zero Day" is undeniable. The series is helmed by executive producers Eric Newman ("Narcos"), former NBC News president Noah Oppenheim, and New York Times correspondent Michael S. Schmidt. Director Lesli Linka Glatter, known for her work on "Homeland," expertly navigates the complex political landscape of the show, crafting a tense and immersive viewing experience.

Joining De Niro and Bassett is an ensemble cast that adds further depth to the drama. Lizzy Caplan plays Mullen’s daughter Alexandra, a two-term congresswoman wary of her father’s return to power. Joan Allen brings gravitas as Mullen’s wife Sheila, who is vying for a federal judgeship. Other key players include Clark Gregg as tech mogul Robert Lyndon, Gaby Hoffmann as media powerhouse Monica Kidder, Bill Camp as CIA Director Lasch, and Matthew Modine as House Speaker Richard Dreyer. Dan Stevens delivers a standout performance as influential podcaster Evan Green, whose true motives remain shrouded in mystery.

"Zero Day" excels in its exploration of modern-day paranoia and the dangerous intersection of technology and power. The cyberattack’s origins are unclear—is it the Russians? A rogue domestic faction? Or something even more insidious? As Mullen navigates these questions, his own mental state begins to unravel. Hallucinations, paranoia, and eerie visions of the past hint at a deeper psychological battle, amplified by the discovery of a defunct government mind-control program known as Proteus. Has Mullen’s medication been tampered with, or is he truly losing his grip on reality?

While the show’s central mystery and political intrigue remain engaging, its weaker moments stem from unnecessary subplots. Flashbacks to the overdose of Mullen’s son and the strain of past marital infidelities slow the pace and dilute the tension. The show also attempts to raise profound questions about government overreach and media manipulation but never fully commits to answering them, leaving certain themes underdeveloped.

Despite its narrative shortcomings, "Zero Day" remains an electrifying ride, largely due to De Niro’s commanding performance. He embodies the role of a leader grappling with both external threats and internal demons, delivering a nuanced portrayal reminiscent of Shakespearean tragedy. Even as the series stumbles in its final stretch, De Niro ensures that every moment he’s on screen is riveting.

For fans of political thrillers and conspiracy dramas, "Zero Day" offers a timely and thought-provoking story that, while imperfect, is undeniably gripping. De Niro’s foray into television proves that he remains a master of the craft, making this Netflix series a must-watch.