Day Zero 2008

Drama

Box Office

$17K

Runtime

92 min

Language

Tagalog

Directed by

Bryan Gunnar Cole

Made by

First Look International

Test your knowledge of Day Zero with our quiz!

Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Day Zero (2008). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

In a speculative future, the lives of three close friends are forever altered when they receive simultaneous draft notices for a renewed military call to action in the Mid-east. This narrative explores their deep anguish and soul-searching as they grapple with the decision to either evade or accept their fate. Dixon, a New York City cab driver played by Jon Bernthal, initially expresses enthusiasm at their hangout bar, where the trio convenes to dissect their new reality.

In the mix is Aaron Feller, portrayed by Elijah Wood, who appears conflicted about military life; despite his reservations, he seems willing to follow Dixon’s lead into the unknown. On the other hand, George, played by Chris Klein, firmly declares that he will not join the military, highlighting the gravity of his situation. Recently promoted to junior partner at his corporate law firm, George has made a promise to his wife Molly, brought to life by Ginnifer Goodwin, a brave cancer survivor, that he will remain by her side.

As the story unfolds, Dixon finds himself with a new romantic interest, a social worker named Patricia, depicted by Elizabeth Moss. Throughout their experiences, he comes to each of his friends’ aid, as he has since their school days, even resorting to physical confrontations, including decking George at a going-away party sparked by a heated debate about military policy.

Meanwhile, Aaron struggles with feelings of inadequacy and takes drastic measures to summon his courage, compiling a challenging 10-item to-do list that drives him toward increasingly reckless actions. George’s despair leads him to drunkenly wield a meat cleaver in a desperate attempt to injure himself to dodge the draft, even finding trouble in a gay bar. Ultimately, with intervention from his wealthy father and a connection to a powerful U.S. senator, George appears to resign himself to temporarily leaving behind his wife and law career.

As Aaron checks off tasks from his to-do list, including failed attempts to mend familial bonds and find solace, his descent deepens. After completing the first nine items without success, and following a drastic change in his appearance, he chooses to leap from the top of a building, leaving a haunting void.

The next day, at Penn Station, Dixon awaits his friends, intent on their shared induction journey. Ultimately, the story concludes ambiguously as only George arrives, leaving their reunion hanging in the air without a word exchanged, emphasizing the weight of their shared struggle and uncertain futures.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Day Zero (2008) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Induction Notices Received

Three close friends receive simultaneous notices for induction into the military due to the reintroduced draft in the U.S. This marks the beginning of a life-altering decision for each of them as they grapple with their choices and the impending reality of war.

New York City

Meeting at the Hang-Out Bar

The trio gathers at their favorite bar to discuss the shocking news of their drafts. Dixon expresses enthusiasm about serving, while Aaron shows concern, and George vehemently refuses to join the military, citing his responsibilities at home.

Bar in New York City

Dixon’s Determination

Dixon, a cab driver, takes on a leadership role among his friends, displaying a sense of duty and excitement about the upcoming induction. He contrasts sharply with Aaron's apprehension and George's outright refusal to serve.

George's Dilemma

George, newly married and a junior partner at his law firm, struggles with the decision to join the military. He feels a duty to his wife, Molly, a cancer survivor, and is torn between his career ambitions and the demands of the draft.

Dixon’s New Romance

During this tumultuous time, Dixon finds solace in a new romantic relationship with social worker Patricia. This relationship adds another layer of complexity as he navigates his feelings about induction and loyalty to his friends.

Argument at Going-Away Party

The tension among the friends escalates during a going-away party for Dixon, culminating in a heated argument about U.S. military policy. The fight showcases the deep emotional undercurrents and differing perspectives on their duty to serve.

Aaron's Descent

Struggling with feelings of inadequacy, Aaron attempts to confront his fears by creating a 10-item to-do list. This list prompts him to engage in increasingly reckless behavior, showcasing his inner turmoil and search for identity.

George's Drunken Incident

In a fit of desperation, George drinks heavily and nearly injures himself with a meat cleaver to avoid the draft. He chooses to pick a fight in a gay bar instead, highlighting his resistance to accepting his fate.

Gay Bar

Seeking Escape

After reaching out to his wealthy father and a U.S. senator, George feels conflicted when he realizes he may be able to avoid serving. However, he ultimately starts to come to terms with the reality of leaving his wife and law career temporarily.

Aaron's Final Act

After failing to check off the final tasks on his to-do list, Aaron, feeling hopeless and lost, decides to end his life by jumping off a building. His tragic decision underscores the mental health struggles faced by those grappling with the pressures of the draft.

Rooftop in New York City

Journey to Induction

The following morning, Dixon waits at Penn Station, preparing for the journey to their induction. He is filled with anticipation, but only George arrives, emphasizing the emotional disconnect and unresolved issues among the trio.

Penn Station, New York City

Final Uncertainty

As George shows up at Penn Station, the story ends just before he and Dixon can exchange greetings. This moment leaves their futures uncertain and highlights the impact of their choices on their friendship.

Characters

Explore all characters from Day Zero (2008). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Dixon (Jon Bernthal)

Dixon is a New York City cab driver with a strong sense of loyalty and camaraderie towards his friends. He exhibits a gung-ho attitude initially but also undergoes personal growth as he navigates his relationships, including a budding romance. His role as a protector contrasts with the internal struggles faced by his friends, showcasing his complexity.

🚖 Cab Driver 👨‍🏫 Lover

Aaron Feller (Elijah Wood)

Aaron is depicted as anxious and introspective, struggling with feelings of inadequacy as the induction looms. His attempt to confront his fears through a to-do list reveals his vulnerability and desire for meaningful experiences. Aaron's tragic arc serves as a poignant commentary on mental health and the impact of societal expectations.

📚 Author 🤷‍♂️ Anxious

George (Chris Klein)

George is a conflicted character grappling with the dual pressures of his career and his marriage. His initial rejection of the draft stems from a desire to fulfill his responsibilities as a husband and professional, yet he struggles with the implications of such choices. His journey illustrates the personal sacrifices made in the face of duty.

⚖️ Lawyer 💍 Married

Setting

Learn where and when Day Zero (2008) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

Imminent future

The story is set in a hypothesized imminent future where a U.S. draft has been reintroduced, reflecting societal tensions and the pressures faced by young men during a time of conflict. This era resonates with themes of duty and personal sacrifice while challenging the characters’ perspectives on war and freedom.

Location

New York City

New York City, known as the Big Apple, is a bustling metropolis famous for its vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and diverse population. It serves as the backdrop for the characters' struggles with friendship and the looming reality of military service. The city's nightlife and bars become a crucial space for the trio to unpack their emotions and decisions.

🗽 New York 🍺 Bar

Themes

Discover the main themes in Day Zero (2008). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

⚔️

War

The looming draft highlights the theme of war and its consequences on individuals and relationships. Each character grapples with the prospect of military service, leading to difficult choices that test their friendships and moral beliefs. The anxiety surrounding war underscores the emotional turmoil each character faces in navigating their futures.

🤔

Existentialism

As the characters confront life-altering decisions, existential themes emerge, especially through Aaron's character. He embarks on a journey of soul-searching and self-reflection, ultimately examining the meaning of his life amidst chaos. This theme questions the value of personal experiences against societal expectations and pressures.

💔

Friendship

The bonds of friendship are tested as the trio faces their induction notices. Their dynamics reveal deep-seated fears, loyalty, and the struggle for support amidst uncertain futures. The challenges they encounter serve to either reinforce or fracture their relationships in the face of potentially life-changing decisions.

Movies with Similar Twists and Themes

Uncover films that echo the narrative beats, emotional arcs, or dramatic twists of the one you're exploring. These recommendations are handpicked based on story depth, thematic resonance, and spoiler-worthy moments — perfect for fans who crave more of the same intrigue.