ZERO DAY (2025) – De Niro Fails to Impress in Lackluster Political Thriller

Zero Day is an ambitious political thriller that stars Robert De Niro as former US President George Mullen, who is called upon by the current administration to lead a task force aimed at uncovering the perpetrators behind a severe cyberattack. The narrative delves into Mullen’s struggle against his political adversaries and his own deteriorating mental health.

The six-part miniseries begins with promise, setting the stage for what appears to be a compelling political drama. However, as the plot progresses, it becomes increasingly convoluted, involving a multitude of characters whose roles are not fully realized. The ensemble cast, while impressive in name, is largely underutilized or hampered by a lackluster script.

Jesse Plemons, typically excellent in his roles, portrays a character that unfortunately comes across as lifeless. Similarly, Dan Stevens, known for his versatility, is unable to showcase his full potential in the role of social media influencer Evan Green, resulting in a character that feels more like a caricature.

Even the venerable Robert De Niro struggles to bring gravitas to his portrayal of President Mullen. His performance is subdued, and the script affords him few opportunities to elevate the material. The screenplay, credited to a team of five writers, fails to coalesce into a cohesive and engaging narrative. Director Lesli Linka Glatter’s competent yet unimaginative direction further compounds the film’s shortcomings.

As is typical of political thrillers involving intrigue at the highest levels, Zero Day features the expected twists and turns, culminating in a climactic moment where the protagonist delivers a grandiose speech. Unfortunately, this moment feels forced and theatrical, lacking the authenticity of real-life political discourse that audiences have become accustomed to through contemporary media.

In conclusion, Zero Day offers a modicum of entertainment but ultimately fails to break new ground in the genre. It is a forgettable endeavor that does little to enhance the careers of its distinguished cast members.