Tim Fehlbaum’s gripping film September 5 has sparked heated debates and strong opinions since its debut at the 2024 Venice Film Festival. Despite whispers of Oscars buzz, the film—centered on the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis—has divided critics and audiences alike, with some lauding its focus on media ethics and others questioning its avoidance of political context.
The film chronicles the tragic events of Sept. 5, 1972, when Palestinian group Black September stormed the Olympic Village, killing two Israeli athletes and taking nine more hostage—ultimately resulting in the deaths of all nine hostages. However, September 5 shifts its lens from the hostages and assailants to the ABC broadcasting team covering the crisis, spotlighting the unprecedented ethical dilemmas of live news coverage during a global event.
Debuting during a volatile geopolitical moment—just a year after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel and amidst ongoing Israel-Hamas tensions—Fehlbaum’s work has inevitably become a lightning rod for political discourse. Yet, the director insists his film was not intended as political commentary but as an exploration of the evolving role of media.
Critics remain divided on the film’s approach. Some argue its focus on media operations sidesteps critical historical and political context, with outlets like Mashable and The Globe and Mail calling it “blinkered” and “context-erasing.” Others, including The Guardian and Variety, praise Fehlbaum’s narrow focus, noting its effectiveness in examining the evolution of news ethics without the weight of political bias.
Controversy intensified after a petition by Alamo Drafthouse Cinema employees gathered over 1,000 signatures, calling for the film’s removal, citing concerns over “manufacturing consent” for anti-Palestinian narratives. Despite this, September 5 continues to captivate audiences by portraying a pivotal moment in broadcast journalism history, reminding viewers of the ethical complexities that still shape modern media.
Fehlbaum’s portrayal of the 1972 crisis, set against the backdrop of the first Olympics to be broadcast globally via satellite, invites introspection on how live news impacts public perception. With its stunning visuals, masterful direction, and timely themes, September 5 cements its place as a conversation starter in both cinematic and journalistic circles.
Source: Swifteradio.com
