Netflix has added the acclaimed war film Zero Dark Thirty to its streaming lineup as of December 1, 2023. The film, which has maintained a solid 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, explores the intricate details surrounding the hunt for Osama bin Laden following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, the film traces a decade-long effort involving multiple U.S. presidential administrations, focusing on the resources dedicated to capturing one of the world’s most-wanted terrorists. The narrative centers on a CIA operative, played by Jessica Chastain, who ultimately locates bin Laden, leading to his death at the hands of Navy SEALs during a nighttime raid in May 2011.
Despite being released in 2012, Zero Dark Thirty continues to garner attention and appreciation. Critics have praised the film for its nuanced portrayal of complex themes without resorting to overt dramatization. One Rotten Tomatoes critic noted, “Without resorting to polarizing tactics such as overt theatrics or cold documentary reenactment, it represents a clever balance of emotion and catharsis.” Another review described it as “a superbly edge-of-your-seat experience, perfectly riddled with unshielded and realistic violence and an enthralling hunt for evidence.”
The film’s direction and execution have also been highlighted. A critic remarked, “From the very first scenes of Zero Dark Thirty, director Kathryn Bigelow demonstrates why she is such a formidable filmmaker, as adept with human emotion as with visceral, pulse-quickening action.”
Despite the overall acclaim, the film has not escaped criticism. Some viewers expressed dissatisfaction with Chastain’s performance, with one reviewer stating, “I was pretty upset that Bigelow got snubbed by the Academy… until I actually SAW the film. It felt like a really good TV movie, but Jessica Chastain’s phony and forced performance drags it down.” Another critic pointed out, “Bigelow has hamstrung herself by not committing to a viewpoint. This is a by-the-numbers, cold, emotionally inert, just the ‘facts’ procedural drama that is just barely a step above an episode of Law & Order.”
While Zero Dark Thirty finds a new audience on Netflix, several films have recently been removed from the platform, including popular titles such as Eat Pray Love, Happy Gilmore, and La La Land. The shifting landscape of Netflix’s offerings continues to capture the attention of subscribers eager for both new content and classic films.
As streaming services adapt and change their libraries, audiences will be watching closely for what comes next. Stay tuned for updates on film releases and critical receptions across major platforms.
