“Zero Day,” is the 2025 Netflix political thriller television miniseries. It’s an American limited series created by Eric Newman, Noah Oppenheim, and Michael Schmidt, directed by Lesli Linka Glatter, and features a star-studded cast led by Robert De Niro. The show premiered on Netflix on February 20, 2025 and consists of six episodes.
The plot revolves around George Mullen (De Niro), a former US president who is called out of retirement by the current president, Evelyn Mitchell (Angela Bassett), to oversee a special commission probing a huge zero-day cyberattack. After the attack cripples the nation’s infrastructure and kills thousands, the current president, Evelyn Mitchell (Angela Bassett), grants Mullen vast powers to find the criminals, despite the threat of further attacks. As he delves deeper, Mullen encounters a web of conspiracies, disinformation and doubts about his own mental health, resulting in a difficult examination of truth and authority in a crisis.
Robert De Niro shines in his first main role on television. Other notable cast members include Angela Bassett, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, Connie Britton, Bill Camp, Dan Stevens, and Matthew Modine. Netflix produced this show, which is a must-see for fans of gripping political dramas. At NetFilming, let’s explore the filming locations that made this miniseries look so authentic!
Where Was ‘Zero Day‘ Filmed?
The Zero Day filming locations, which include both major cities and serene getaways, help to bring the story alive. Let’s explore all locations in detail:
New York City
New York City shines as a prominent backdrop in “Zero Day,” particularly the Financial District and Wall Street. Its bustling streets and big structures reflect the show’s high-stakes atmosphere.
Director Lesli Linka Glatter said, “Wall Street’s fast pace and bold look were ideal for showing the chaos and power in the story.” Crowds watched as Mullen tackled crises here.
Trivia: This area also starred in “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “The Dark Knight Rises,” proving its Hollywood fame.
Steiner Studios, Brooklyn
Steiner Studios in Brooklyn’s Navy Yard hosted the indoor scenes, like the Zero Day Commission’s headquarters. Producer Eric Newman noted, “We needed a controlled space to match the story’s complexity, and Steiner delivered.” It kept the tension tight and real.
Fun fact: “Joker” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” also called this studio home.
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., adds political punch with landmarks like the U.S. Capitol. Robert De Niro shared, “Shooting in D.C. felt authentic—it’s where power lives, just like in the show.” White House exterior shots boosted the presidential feel.
Trivia: D.C. is a hotspot for thrillers like “House of Cards” and “All the President’s Men.”
Hilltop Hanover Farm—Yorktown, New York
Some scenes found a calm escape at Hilltop Hanover Farm in Yorktown, New York. This working farm and environmental center offered a peaceful break from the series’ intensity. Glatter explained, “The farm’s quiet beauty gave us a perfect contrast to the action.” With roots back to the 1700s, it’s now a county-owned spot for fresh produce and eco-education.
Trivia: It’s less famous than other sites but shares Yorktown’s charm with projects like “The Post.”
Arlington Memorial Bridge—Washington, D.C.
The historic Arlington Memorial Bridge in Washington, D.C., set the stage for dramatic moments. Spanning the Potomac River, it links the Lincoln Memorial to Arlington National Cemetery. De Niro said, “The bridge’s grandeur added weight to our key scenes.” It’s a symbol of unity that fits the show’s themes.
Trivia: It’s popped up in films like “A Few Good Men,” tying it to D.C.’s cinematic legacy.
Sleepy Hollow, New York
A private estate in Sleepy Hollow became George and Sheila Mullen’s home. Glatter shared, “Sleepy Hollow’s serene vibe was just what we needed for those personal touches.” It balanced the chaos perfectly.
Fun fact: Tim Burton’s “Sleepy Hollow” was also filmed nearby, adding to its Hollywood cred.
Zero Day Plot Summary
Zero Day is a political thriller that plunges viewers into the chaotic world of cyberterrorism and misinformation. The story follows former U.S. President George Mullen (played by Robert De Niro), who finds himself at the center of a nationwide crisis when a devastating cyberattack cripples the country.
Mullen, a respected leader in retirement, is suddenly pulled back into the political spotlight when a series of coordinated cyberattacks create widespread panic. As the administration fights to recover power, current US President Evelyn Mitchell (Angela Bassett) asks Mullen to help unearth the truth.
Mullen embarks on a risky expedition to find those responsible, accompanied by his daughter Alexandra Mullen (Lizzy Caplan) and cybersecurity specialist Roger Carlson (Jesse Plemons). The deeper they dig, the more they realize that this attack is part of a much larger conspiracy—one that could change the future of democracy forever.
The miniseries brilliantly combines real-world political concerns with thrilling tension—resulting in a thought-provoking experience. The tension, betrayals, and unexpected twists keep viewers glued to their seats.
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When Did the Filming of ‘Zero Day‘ Take Place?
Filming kicked off in mid-2023 across New York and Washington, D.C. It paused in June 2023 due to the Writers Guild strike but resumed in December 2023, finishing in early 2024. The delay actually sharpened the script!
Zero Day Cast Details
- Robert De Niro as George Mullen, the former President leading the investigation.
- Angela Bassett as President Evelyn Mitchell, the current leader facing the crisis.
- Lizzy Caplan as Alexandra Mullen, George’s daughter and a congresswoman.
- Jesse Plemons as Roger Carlson, George’s trusted aide.
- Dan Stevens as Evan Green, a bold political commentator.
- Connie Britton as Valerie Whitesell, a key political figure.
- Joan Allen as Sheila Mullen, George’s wife.
- Matthew Modine as Richard Dreyer, the Speaker of the House.
“Zero Day” Behind The Scenes
Making “Zero Day” wasn’t easy, but the team’s passion shone through. The WGA strike caused a delay in production—allowing authors to sharpen the script. Robert De Niro, a native of New York, found pleasure in filming in his hometown as it maintained his connection to the role. The crew worked hard to mix actual places with studio sets, resulting in a cohesive environment. Local communities in New York and D.C. witnessed the action firsthand, with some even spotting De Niro on set!
Angela Bassett praised the script, saying:
“This story is timely and terrifying—it’s a wake-up call about how vulnerable we really are.”
Behind-the-scenes footage reveals the meticulous set designs that recreated government buildings and emergency response centers. The cast and crew worked closely with tech experts to make the hacking sequences feel as realistic as possible.
Zero Day Official Trailer
The “Zero Day” trailer promises suspense, drama and a stellar cast in just a few minutes. Check it out here:
“Zero Day” is a thrilling ride made much better by the breathtaking filming sites. The Zero Day filming sites, which range from New York’s busy streets to Washington, D.C.’s historic buildings, bring the drama to life in unforgettable ways. Visit NetFilming for more information about your favorite shows and movies!
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