Terror and Triumph: September 5 Explores Journalism's Role During Munich Massacre

In a gripping portrayal of one of history's most harrowing moments, "September 5" takes viewers into the heart of the 1972 Munich Olympics, a setting that transformed from a celebration of athletic prowess to a live broadcast of terror. The film zeroes in on the ethical crossroads faced by journalists in a rapidly changing media landscape, illustrating how their role in reporting on crises has evolved into a complex dance of urgency, responsibility, and spectacle. As the sun rose on that fateful day, athletes around the world were oblivious to the chaos unfolding in the Olympic Village. Eight members of the Black September, a militant Palestinian group, infiltrated the area, taking 11 Israeli athletes hostage and resulting in the deaths of two. The film, however, pivots away from the hostage-takers and hostages to focus on the ABC Sports team who found themselves thrust into a breaking news story they never anticipated covering. Directed by Tim Fehlbaum, "September 5" is more than just a retelling of events; it is a journalism creation story. The narrative centers on Geoff, a young producer played by John Magaro, who alongside a diverse crew of colleagues, races against time to ensure that the harrowing developments are captured and broadcasted to an audience that is about to witness history unfold live. The film captures the frantic energy and high stakes of breaking news, as Geoff and his team navigate their way through the chaos, wrestling with the implications of their coverage while trying to adhere to journalistic integrity. The film's pacing is relentless, reflecting the adrenaline-fueled atmosphere of the control room. Fehlbaum opts for a documentary-style aesthetic, immersing the audience in the era's analogue technology—massive rotary phones and bulky cameras—as the crew makes split-second decisions to relay information to the public. This focus on the mechanics of journalism enhances the tension, drawing viewers into the moral quandaries that arise when news turns into entertainment. Peter Jennings, portrayed with gravitas by Benjamin Walker, stands as a central figure in the coverage, embodying the era's journalistic ethos. His transformation from a sports reporter to a key news anchor amid a crisis underscores the unpredictable nature of journalism during times of turmoil. The film captures the collective effort of the ABC team, who—though well-meaning—are caught in the whirlwind of sensationalism that often accompanies live reporting. This brings to the forefront the question of the ethical responsibilities of journalists when faced with the suffering of others. "September 5" deftly avoids the traditional tropes of the journalism genre, eschewing the archetypes of heroes and villains typically seen in films about the media. Instead, it presents its characters as complex individuals navigating an extraordinary event, illustrating the pressures and moral dilemmas they face. The narrative doesn't shy away from the uncomfortable truth that the coverage of horror can become a form of entertainment, creating a spectacle that both informs and distorts reality. The film's 95-minute runtime is both concise and impactful, allowing for an engaging exploration of the themes without unnecessary embellishments. It stands as a poignant reminder of how a singular event can redefine the role of journalism and shape public perception, serving as a reflection on the nature of news coverage in an age where the line between information and entertainment blurs. As audiences settle into their seats for "September 5," they are invited not only to witness a pivotal moment in history but also to contemplate the responsibilities that come with the power of the press. The film resonates with contemporary viewers, urging them to reflect on how the consumption of news has transformed in the digital age, and what it means to watch tragedy unfold as if it were a spectator sport.