Set in an America of the near future, Day Zero tells the story of lives changed by the reinstating of the draft for military service.  The war is still going on in Iraq and three young men of different backgrounds, all friends, have received their notices. 

They have thirty days until they report for duty.  What will happen to them between now and Day Zero.

Day Zero does not fit any typical war or anti-war movie structure, as it is a compilation of all war stories both generic and personal, pro fighting and pro peace.  The three friends a writer, a lawyer and a cabdriver, could serve as representatives of all humankind caught in the net of serving their country with honor. 

Or they can be individuals with personal tragedies and losses, or a sense of duty and pride by answering the country’s call.  In any case they must leave their lives behind, not by their own choice, but at the will of a governmental power, and fight for their country and for their existence.

The three young men Elijah Wood (Aaron), Chris Klein (George) and Jon Bernthal (Dixon), are convincing as we see them struggle with shock, grief, patriotism, love, loyalty, friendship, courage and fear.  At the beginning of the movie, they are little more than stereotypes. 

Aaron the novelist thinks too much about all the aspects of the war, but in such a detailed manner, it is as if he is researching and writing a script that he will then perform.  George Rifkin, the lawyer feels that he has too much to lose, and tries to figure a way out without giving up any respect or position that he has achieved.  Dixon, the rough cab driver is all macho patriotic pride, he declares himself ready to go and fight, having been that way since 9/11, just waiting for the call. 

Of course each of the men are much more than these first impressions, and during the film we see them move through various stages of awareness, about themselves, about their loved ones, and about this thing that they have been called to do for their country.  Ginnifer Goodwin plays Molly, wife of George, Elisabeth Moss plays Patricia new girlfriend of Dixon, and Sofia Vassilieva plays Mara a young girl who sees Dixon as a big brother or father figure. 

Together with Ally Sheedy as a ditzy psychologist for Aaron, these women present the female perspective of men going off to war.

For those who have lived with a military draft, it will bring back chilling memories, for those who have never experienced the fear of being called to war, it will be an interesting “what if.” 

Day Zero is presented on single disc in widescreen format.  The playing time is 95 minutes, and it is subtitled in English and Spanish.  It is rated R for language, some sexual content, some violence and drug use.

There are some beautiful lines and scenes within the story that point out how very much for granted we take many aspects of our lives…there are also some horrific mistakes made, and some chilling truths to be faced as well.  What is honor?  What is duty?  And to whom do we owe our greatest allegiance? 
 
Courtesy Monsters and Critics.