September 5 Movie Review

In September 5, the NBC sports crew assigned to cover the 1972 Munich Olympics find themselves with the story of the century: terrorists have taken hostage many members of the Israeli team. In a scramble to deliver the story to the world, they maneuver both technical and ethical challenges. Even if you know how it ends, September 5 is one of the more captivating movies of the year. 

Propped up by a strong ensemble cast that includes Peter Skarsgaard, John Magaro, and Leonie Benesch, September 5 paints a riveting look at a remote newsroom some 50 years ago. From the technology at hand to the questions they must answer (do you keep broadcasting live when you know the terrorists are watching andthat your footage may be helping them?), the movie serves both as a calculating portrayal of journalists/producers in action and a stark reminder of how much has changed (and stayed the same) in the age of 24/7 news. 

While elements of the film may feel a bit pedestrian, altogether September 5 makes for a riveting thriller about a crisis unfolding in real time. It’s one of the rare movies I’ve watched this year where I was unable to take my eyes off the screen. I watched this movie at home and am a notorious multitasker; I didn’t even reach for my phone, let alone get up to go to the bathroom as I so desperately needed to starting at the midway point. 

The timing of the movie is a little suspect. Amidst yet another Israeli-Palestian conflict, there are a few moments where it feels as though Tim Felbhaum is sort of elbowing you in the ribs saying “see, look what these Palestinians did to the Israelis!” though admittedly that may just be me casting my own biases upon the film. 

Politics aside, September 5 is a lean, fast-paced, and enthralling movie that comes in at a merciful 90 minutes. Highly recommended. 

Review by Erik Samdahl unless otherwise indicated.