Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Netflix's 'Zero Day' Explores Cyberattack Threats and Political Intrigue

The Robert De Niro-led series examines the fallout of a catastrophic cyberattack and the moral dilemmas surrounding truth and power.

Image
McKinley Belcher III, from left, Mozhan Navabi, Robert De Niro, Jesse Plemons and Connie Britton star in “Zero Day.”
Image
Image

Overview

  • The six-episode series follows former U.S. President George Mullen, played by Robert De Niro, as he investigates a devastating one-minute cyberattack affecting critical infrastructure and killing thousands.
  • The show delves into themes of political overreach, disinformation, and the societal consequences of a fractured relationship with truth.
  • Key characters include Speaker of the House Richard Dreyer, tech billionaire Monica Kidder, and Mullen's congresswoman daughter Alexandra, all entangled in a conspiracy linked to the attack.
  • Creators Eric Newman, Noah Oppenheim, and Michael S. Schmidt emphasize the series' grounding in real-world cyber vulnerabilities and the dangers of unchecked technological advancements.
  • The series has drawn comparisons to 'Homeland' for its character-driven storytelling and raises questions about the ethical boundaries of governance during crises.