"Zero Day" Review: A Critical Look At Robert De Niro's Latest Netflix Project

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Post on Feb 22, 2025

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"Zero Day" Review: De Niro's Netflix Thriller Falls Flat Despite Star Power

NEW YORK, NY – Robert De Niro, a cinematic titan whose career spans decades and countless iconic roles, stars in Netflix's latest thriller, "Zero Day." While the film boasts a high-profile cast and a premise ripe with potential, the execution ultimately falls short, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment rather than suspense. The film, directed by [Sarah Colangelo], premiered on [September 12, 2023] and has received mixed reviews, highlighting a common theme: great potential undermined by a lackluster script and uneven pacing.

The film centers around [Ethan], a [former White House lawyer] played by De Niro, who finds himself embroiled in a political conspiracy after being implicated in a [complex financial scandal involving government officials]. The storyline, while initially promising, struggles to maintain momentum. The plot, designed to unfold as a tense, twisting mystery, instead bogs down in [excessive exposition and dialogue that fails to build genuine suspense]. Key plot points feel underdeveloped, leaving crucial questions unanswered and creating narrative holes that undermine the overall impact. [The supporting cast, including [Jane Fonda as his wife and [Casey Affleck] as an investigative journalist], deliver capable performances but are ultimately hampered by the script's weaknesses.]

De Niro, despite his undeniable presence, cannot single-handedly salvage the film. While he delivers a compelling portrayal of a man grappling with betrayal and moral ambiguity, his performance is weighed down by the narrative's shortcomings. The character of Ethan, while intriguing in concept, remains somewhat underdeveloped; his motivations and internal conflicts are not fully explored, resulting in a somewhat flat portrayal despite De Niro's best efforts.

The film's technical aspects are equally underwhelming. The cinematography, while competent, lacks a distinctive style, failing to create a visually compelling atmosphere that could elevate the often-plodding narrative. The soundtrack similarly fails to contribute meaningfully to the mood, often feeling generic and detached from the action on screen.

While "Zero Day" attempts to tackle complex themes surrounding political corruption and personal betrayal, it ultimately stumbles in its execution. The film lacks the sharp pacing and intricate plot twists necessary to sustain viewer interest. It's a missed opportunity, a testament to the fact that even a stellar cast cannot compensate for a poorly written and directed screenplay. Fans of De Niro will likely feel a pang of disappointment, particularly given his recent string of more critically acclaimed roles. While the film might appeal to those who enjoy slower-paced political thrillers, the overall experience is ultimately forgettable, lacking the punch and intrigue one expects from a film with such high-profile talent involved. In the crowded landscape of streaming content, "Zero Day" is unlikely to stand out as a must-see. The film ultimately serves as a cautionary tale: even the best actors can't save a bad script.

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars