High Potential

Need to Know
A compelling American adaptation of the acclaimed French/ Belgian series HPI, High Potential offers a sophisticated, albeit uneven, exploration of ambition and its human cost within the rarefied world of high-powered executives. Expect sharp writing and compelling performances.

Director: Drew Goddard
Cast: Kaitlin Olson, Daniel Sunjata, Judy Reyes, Deniz Akdeniz and Javicia Leslie

Why Is It Worth Watching?
High Potential masterfully captures the internal struggles of those striving for the pinnacle of success. The series shines in its nuanced portrayal of the relentless pressure, personal sacrifices and hidden insecurities that lie beneath the polished veneer of corporate life. Each character is richly drawn, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. While the pacing occasionally falters, the overall impact remains significant. The depiction of the corporate landscape, while insightful, could benefit from a more refined approach. Certain plotlines, particularly those involving romantic entanglements, occasionally feel somewhat predictable.
Despite these minor shortcomings, High Potential offers a rewarding viewing experience. Its unflinching examination of ambition and its consequences resonates powerfully, prompting reflection on the true meaning of success and the importance of maintaining a balanced life. The series is elevated by strong performances and a sophisticated exploration of the human condition within a high-stakes professional environment. With the entire first season now available for binge-watching following the finale on February 11, you can immerse yourself completely before season two arrives this autumn.

Zero Day

Need to Know
A trustworthy former US president is called in to lead an investigation into a devastating cyberattack.

Director: Lesli Glatter
Cast: Robert De Niro, Mathew Modine, Lizzy Caplan, Jesse Plemons, Joan Allen, Connie Britton, Bill Camp, Dan Stevens, McKinley Belcher III and Angela Basset.

Why Is It Worth Watching?
The six-episode limited series, released on Netflix, received mixed to average reviews. But like everything else, such as music and food, it is a matter of taste. So, if you’re a fan of Robert De Niro and American politics and enjoy conspiracy thrillers, then Zero Day ticks all three boxes.
A fan of De Niro myself, since watching him first in The Deer Hunter (1978), I was happy to see his first TV series, in which he plays the role of George Mullen; a previous US president struggling to keep a mental balance, while haunted with a past personal tragedy and a current national crisis.
It may appear to be a subtle coincidence that while the White House was going through the transition of power (Biden/Trump) against widespread criticism (among other issues) of ‘tech oligarchy’ as well as De Niro’s personal outspoken criticism of Trump, comes this solid masterclass performance of gravitas and statesmanship, by De Niro.
On the whole, a gripping plot with one or two distractions, perhaps to keep viewers intrigued, as the story unfolds to its climactic ending, with a hopeful message suggesting that truth can save a vulnerable and broken nation.