This film encourages audiences to draw their own contemporary parallels to the events.
The narrative unfolds through the lens of ABC TV’s sports division, portraying a media procedural in which the crew finds themselves responsible for broadcasting live coverage of the tragedy from their cramped gallery. Faced with the pressure of competition, the team juggles cumbersome equipment to capture the unfolding chaos, while navigating conflicts with other networks over resources. They make hasty decisions, propelled by the urgency to scoop rival networks, all while being blind to their role in the situation's escalation. Their sense of panic and responsibility grows as they realize the weight of their broadcast.
The actors, led by John Magaro as the frazzled studio director Geoffrey Mason, deliver an intense performance, interspersed with real archival footage of the actual events. This blend of fiction and reality creates a haunting atmosphere reminiscent of James L. Brooks’ Broadcast News. Magaro’s character improvises new transmission techniques amid the chaos, reflecting a struggle between professionalism and ethical journalism.
"It was a breaking point in media history," says Tim Fehlbaum, the Swiss director.
The film highlights two major missteps by ABC: initially celebrating their live coverage as the untrained German police attempted to rescue the hostages, only to later realize the terrorists were watching the broadcast. Later, after the hostages are moved, the team mistakenly reports false information that all hostages were freed, influenced by dubious sources. This raises questions about the reliability of news in high-stakes situations.
By focusing on the chilling effects of live television journalism without heavy political or historical commentary, the film captures the professional detachment and voyeurism of media coverage. It conveys the gripping tension and moral quandaries faced by those involved in the coverage. With a compelling narrative, September 5 invites viewers to reflect on the interplay between media and unfolding tragedy.
The film is now showing in select US cinemas and will premiere in the UK on February 6.
