“September 5” offers a gripping portrayal of the media’s pivotal role during the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis. Directed by Tim Fehlbaum, the film focuses on the American TV crew from ABC Sports, led by Peter Sarsgaard and John Magaro, as they navigate the unprecedented live coverage of a terrorist attack by the Palestinian group Black September. The documentary-style drama reveals how their real-time decisions and ethical dilemmas influenced the unfolding of the crisis, marking a historic moment in broadcast journalism.
The film starts with the fateful day of September 5, 1972, when millions tuned in to witness the tense hostage situation unfold live. ABC’s coverage became a historic first, as it was the first network to broadcast such an event in real time, bringing both the terrorists and the hostages’ families directly into the broadcast. This decision had far-reaching implications, some of which are still debated today, especially as the film does not delve deeply into the political aspects of the massacre but rather focuses on the media’s handling of the crisis.
Fehlbaum’s direction, co-written with Moritz Binder, emphasizes the ethical and operational challenges faced by the ABC team, led by Roone Arledge (Sarsgaard), who insists on keeping the story within the sports department rather than handing it over to news. This decision, while strategic, raises complex questions about journalistic responsibility and the impact of live reporting on sensitive situations.
“September 5” showcases the internal dynamics of the ABC crew, including a young producer (Magaro) and a German-speaking crew member, Marianne (Leonie Benesch), whose role highlights gender-related power struggles within the team. The film’s portrayal of the 17-hour ordeal provides a detailed look at the tension and tough calls made in the control room, including the premature and incorrect report of the hostages’ safety.
The film’s presentation—using handheld camerawork and vintage-style post-production—creates a realistic yet slightly stylized depiction of the events. Although it may not capture all the nuances of the actual crisis, it offers an insightful view into the media’s role and the intense pressure faced by journalists in a breaking news environment. Despite some stilted performances, Sarsgaard and Magaro deliver compelling portrayals of individuals grappling with the challenges of live reporting during one of the most dramatic moments in television history.
