September 5 is a historical drama directed by Tim Fehlbaum, chronicling the harrowing events of the 1972 Munich Olympics. The film focuses on the terrorist attack carried out by the Palestinian militia group Black September, with a unique narrative perspective centered on ABC Sports’ broadcasting team. The screenplay is penned by Fehlbaum alongside Alex David and Moritz Binder, with Martin Moszkowicz and Christoph Müller serving as executive producers.
The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival on August 29, 2024. Following a limited theatrical release in the United States on December 13, 2024, it is set for a wide release on January 17, 2025.
September 5 OST
The film’s gripping score is composed by German composer Lorenz Dangel. The original soundtrack album, titled September 5, was released by Königskinder Music on November 22, 2024.
Tracklist:
- ABC Trailer
- Swim Race
- Gunshots
- Get the Crew In
- The Roof
- Preparation
- 45 Minutes
- On Air
- V3
- The Window
- Preparation 2
- Helicopters
- Old Memories
- Hostages Free
- All Gone
- Dirge
The track is available to stram on Spotify and Apple music.
Lorenz Dangel’s score masterfully underscores the tension and emotion of the film, immersing viewers in the gripping events of the 1972 hostage crisis.
About the Film
September 5 recounts the 1972 Summer Olympics’ darkest moment, when the Palestinian group Black September took members of the Israeli Olympic team hostage. The crisis escalated into a major geopolitical catastrophe. However, the film’s narrative centers on the ABC Sports broadcasting team, who found themselves covering the unfolding events live—a historical first for media coverage of terrorism.
Producer Geoff Mason takes charge, pivoting the network’s focus from sports to real-time news. This groundbreaking decision leads to unprecedented ethical and operational challenges, as television executive Roone Arledge and operations manager Marvin Bader grapple with the weight of their decisions and their potential impact on the hostages’ fate.
Cast and Characters
The talented ensemble cast includes:
- Peter Sarsgaard as Roone Arledge
- John Magaro as Geoffrey Mason
- Ben Chaplin as Marvin Bader
- Leonie Benesch as Marianne Gebhardt
- Zinedine Soualem as Jacques Lesgards
- Corey Johnson as Hank Hanson
- Georgina Rich as Gladys Deist
- Benjamin Walker as Peter Jennings
- Rony Herman as David Berger
- Marcus Rutherford as Carter Jeffrey
- Daniel Adeosun as Gary Slaughter
Supporting roles feature a mix of historical figures and fictional characters, reflecting the real-life stakes of the tragedy.
September 5 offers a poignant look at a pivotal moment in history, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by media professionals during a global crisis. With its compelling narrative and evocative score, the film promises to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.