Fri Feb 21 01:07:11 UTC 2025: ## De Niro’s Netflix Debut a “Zero Day” for Quality: Critics Pan Star-Studded Political Thriller

**Los Angeles, CA** – Robert De Niro’s highly anticipated Netflix debut in the limited series “Zero Day” has been met with scathing reviews, with critics panning the show’s incoherent plot, bland visuals, and wasted star power. Despite boasting a stellar cast including Angela Bassett, Jesse Plemons, and Matthew Modine, the six-episode thriller fails to deliver, according to Variety.

The series, created by Eric Newman (“Narcos”) and co-showrun by journalist Noah Oppenheim, follows a former president (De Niro) tasked with investigating a devastating cyberattack. While the premise holds potential, the execution is severely lacking. Critics cite wooden dialogue, a confusing narrative that feels both rushed and draggy, and a politically muddled approach that attempts to address various topical issues without effectively exploring any.

“Zero Day” shares similarities with Netflix’s hit series “The Night Agent,” particularly in its conspiracy thriller premise and a somewhat similar plot involving a major cyberattack. However, unlike “The Night Agent,” “Zero Day” fails to captivate, despite its A-list cast. The impressive ensemble, including Connie Britton, Lizzie Caplan, Dan Stevens, and Gaby Hoffmann, is unable to elevate the material, with their performances deemed merely “serviceable.”

The show’s visual style is also criticized for its dullness, reminiscent of the poorly received beach scene in “House of the Dragon.” Plot twists are described as underwhelming, lacking the necessary setup and meaningful consequences. Even De Niro’s performance, while dignified, is not enough to save the series from its flaws.

While the series attempts to explore the former president’s emotional struggles, the character remains underdeveloped and inconsistent, shifting inexplicably between respected leader and reviled figure. The review concludes that “Zero Day” falls short of both a prestige drama and a compelling thriller, ultimately wasting the talents of its impressive cast and leaving viewers disappointed. All six episodes are currently streaming on Netflix.

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