DVD Corner

September 5 Blu-ray Review

“September 5” is a well made historical drama. 

Set during the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, “September 5” focuses on the perspective of the ABC Sports broadcasting crew. Coverage of the sporting events soon becomes interrupted when news breaks out regarding a Palestinian militant group (Black September) holding the Israeli athletes hostage. The terrorist group is demanding the release of Palestinian prisoners and is threatening the lives of the athletes. Now in charge of the news control room, crew member Geoffrey decides to cover the ongoing hostage crisis as it is massive news, but the decision proves complicated when the live reporting not only interferes with a rescue attempt, but features grossly inaccurate news.

Made 52 years after the tragic event, “September 5” is a skillfully directed biodrama from director Tim Fehlbaum and writers Moritz Binder, Alex David, and Tim Fehlbaum. The film (which works as a companion piece to “Munich”) not only authentically documents the heartbreaking story that unfolded, but it takes viewers into the newsroom where the editorial and broadcast choices were made for this historic television event. Through this angle, the writers intelligently explore numerous and timely themes about journalistic integrity, ethics and morals, truth, sensationalized news, political tensions (that still endure), and exploiting a tragedy for mere ratings. The film doesn’t waste any time getting down to business. There’s no filler to be found here. Even though we all know the horrific outcome, Tim Fehlbaum still manages to make the entire film a gripping affair as we (the audience) are essentially trapped in the newsroom watching the horrors unfold through a TV screen in a voyeuristic manner.

While the film is much more situational than character based, there are still several notable performances here. John Magaro has been in many of the best underrated movies over the past several years like “Past Lives,” “First Cow,” and “Showing Up.” “September 5” is but another strong credit to the actor’s filmography. He should have a much bigger career although maybe he’s perfectly happy starring in small gems. Peter Sarsgaard shines as ABC Sports President Roone. Leonie Benesch gives perhaps the film’s best performance as the German translator who is deeply affected by the events that transpire.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. How does it look? This is an exquisite transfer that really showcases the 70’s style cinematography.

Audio Track: 7.1 Dolby TrueHD. How does it sound? A note perfect 7.1 track.

The lone extra is a Digital copy

February 12, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | 1972 Summer Olympics, John Magaro, Peter Sarsgaard, September 5 Blu-ray Review, September 5 Movie