Film Review: “September 5” - A Gripping Journey Back to Munich, 1972

Los Angeles, CA—One of the perks of being a Screen Actors Guild member is exclusive access to film screenings. This time, it was at the stunning theater at Paramount Studios, where not only did I see the film, but I got to meet the talented cast and the young visionary Swiss director, Tim Fehlbaum.

“September 5” transports viewers back to the Munich Olympics of 1972—a global celebration of athleticism that quickly spiraled into a nightmare. The world watched in shock as Palestinian terrorists, under the name Black September, launched a calculated attack, kidnapping and brutally murdering 11 Israeli athletes and coaches, along with a German policeman. Helping orchestrate the horror were infamous German radicals Andreas Baader and Ulrike Meinhof, making the tragedy even more chilling.

What sets this film apart is its unique perspective: we experience the horror through the eyes of ABC News sports reporters and producers, who were on-site in Munich, covering the Olympics. Imagine using the “cutting-edge” equipment of 1972—now laughably outdated by today’s standards—to broadcast a massive international story. The pressure was relentless; these were sports reporters suddenly plunged into a global crisis well beyond their usual scope. Yet, through their determined reporting, they became the eyes and ears of the world. Nearly 1,000,000,000 viewers watch this unfold worldwide on live television.

Sean Penn produced this film, and regardless of personal opinions on his politics, there’s no denying his extraordinary talent. The acting is powerful, the cinematography innovative, and the experience immersive. Watching, you feel as though you’re right there in the cramped, chaotic makeshift studio alongside the reporters, experiencing every tense moment as they grapple with a breaking tragedy.

As the story unfolds, you already know that history won’t deliver a happy ending. Yet, the intensity never lets up. This is a film like nothing you’ve ever seen before. “September 5” will keep you on the edge of your seat, captivated by the courage, humanity, and tragedy of that day in Munich. Don’t miss it.

The film opens in select theaters November 29. It opens nationwide on December 13.

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