September 5 is the true story of journalistic responsibility amidst terrorism. During the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, the ABC Sports team was operating smoothly. Their exclusive coverage of the games was reaching audiences around the globe, connecting people to the events. One evening, the relative new Geoffrey Mason (John Magaro) takes over the night shift. He quickly learns the ropes, adjusting his leadership style to the crew. Suddenly, gunfire is heard. ABC Sports scrambles to learn the facts about the developing situation. They soon discover that terrorists have taken several Israeli athletes hostage within the Olympic Village across the way. Under the guidance of executive Roone Arledge (Peter Sarsgaard) the team works together to continue broadcasting live as the tension rises.
What works in September 5 is the fascinating insight into quandaries of journalistic responsibilities in the face of tragedy. The suspense is palpable. Director Tim Fehlbaum (Tides) creates an atmosphere ripe with conflict, both internal and external to the news studio. By focusing on the broadcast team, September 5 provides a unique perspective filled with questions. Of course there are the concerns about what the terrorists will do, but also how should ABC act? Is it ethical to keep covering the hostage-takers? To what lengths should the journalists and anchors go to keep gathering and reporting information in real-time? These dilemmas are addressed head-on in a way that feels honest (and very respectful). All in all, Fehlbaum has created a taut film full of fantastic performances.
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It is very understandable that many people might be sensitive to the horrific events of September 5. While Fehlbaum handles the subject matter with care, some may have a strong emotional response to the story. The recreation is incredibly realistic, given the intricate integration of archival footage. This means that, for some, watching September 5 will eerily feel like reliving the day. There’s an intentional emotional heaviness laden within nearly every scene. Finally, September 5 has a purposeful narrow focus. The entire film is through the lens of the ABC Sports journalists on the ground. This means that less attention is given to the hostages, or the contextual proceedings before and/or after the event.
September 5 is a powerful movie. The choice of perspective gives the film a unique quality, engrossing the audience. While the material may be particularly heavy, September 5 comes highly recommended.
Recommended if you enjoyed: Munich, Spotlight, Mad City
September 5 is available to see in theaters in limited release started on December 13th, and then opens wide on January 17th, 2025.
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