Netflix’s "Zero Day": A Political Thriller that Falls Flat
Netflix’s latest six-episode limited series, "Zero Day," boasts an impressive cast that includes Robert De Niro, Angela Bassett, Connie Britton, Jesse Plemons, Dan Stevens, Lizzy Caplan, Joan Allen, Matthew Modine, and Bill Camp. However, despite its star-studded ensemble, the series fails to deliver on its promise as a compelling political thriller.
A Ham-handed Plot with Unrealistic Characters
"Zero Day" unfolds in a post-cyberattack United States where a former president, George Mullen (Robert De Niro), is tasked with leading a commission to investigate the attack. The series presents a convoluted conspiracy plot that lacks any real thrills or suspense. The characters are one-dimensional and unrelatable, their actions often illogical and unrealistic.
Mullen, despite his supposed gravitas, comes across as a cardboard cutout, unable to save the series from its inherent flaws. The other cast members are equally wasted in thankless roles, with their talents squandered on flimsy characters and nonsensical plotlines.
Political Portrayal that Misses the Mark
While "Zero Day" attempts to tackle modern politics, its portrayal is deeply inaccurate and misguided. The series fails to capture the nuances of political ideologies, instead resorting to caricatures and false dichotomies. Characters are labeled as "right" or "left" without any meaningful substance to their beliefs or actions.
The show’s depiction of the public’s response to the cyberattack is particularly unrealistic. In contrast to the unity and resilience seen in real-world crises like 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic, the people in "Zero Day" resort to fighting and rioting. This artificial portrayal undermines the credibility of the series and its ability to engage viewers.
Lack of Exposition and Character Development
Compounding the series’ problems is its lack of exposition and character development. The audience is thrust into the plot without sufficient explanation or background, leaving them confused and disconnected from the story. As the episodes progress, the characters remain underdeveloped, with little depth or motivation to drive their actions.
The result is a six-hour-long slog that fails to engage, entertain, or enlighten. The resolution to the mystery is as unsatisfying as the journey that led to it, leaving viewers with a sense of wasted time and unfulfilled expectations.
In Conclusion
Netflix’s "Zero Day" is a missed opportunity to create a compelling and thought-provoking political thriller. Its star-studded cast is wasted on shallow characters and an illogical plot that lacks any real substance. The series’ unrealistic portrayal of politics and human behavior further undermines its credibility, making it a disappointing and forgettable viewing experience.
Critic’s Rating: ⭐️ out of four
