September 5 (Blu-ray) review

[David Vaughn]

Studio: Paramount
Release Date: February 18, 2025
Rating: R
Film: 4.5/5
 
Plot
During the 1972 Munich Olympics, a hostage crisis pushes legendary TV executive Roone Arledge (Peter Sarsgaard) to thrust an untested sports producer, Geoff Mason (John Magaro), into the spotlight of breaking news coverage. With lives hanging in the balance and the world watching, this pivotal moment, based on a true story, reshaped journalism forever.
 
My Thoughts
Set against the backdrop of the 1972 Munich Olympics, the film delves into the chaos and ethical dilemmas faced by the ABC Sports broadcasting crew as they unexpectedly become the world’s only outlet with eyes on the terrifying hostage situation. The film masterfully intertwines archival footage with dramatic reenactments, creating a visceral experience that feels both authentic and insanely intense.
 
The Oscar-nominated original screenplay, wo written by director Tim Fehlbaum, Moritz Binder, and Alex David, is the perfect blend of intense chaos and dialogue, never wasting a moment as it explores the historic event. Furthermore, the performances are just as impressive, with John Magor delivering a fantastic performance as the young and ambitious producer Geoffrey Mason as he captures the adrenaline and moral quandaries of live broadcasting a historic event where the outcome is unknown. Sarsgaard portrayal of Roone Arledge brings a complex depth to the character as he struggles with his journalistic duty and human empathy.
 
The film is shot almost exclusively the dark interiors of the television studio, so don’t expect a bright and inviting image. That being said, the director of photography does an excellent job of providing just enough light to see all the action in the rea world environment. Shadow delimitation is excellent and the film really looks like it was shot in 1972, even though it was shot on Red V-Raptor 8K cameras with some 16mm footage added in for authenticity. The Dolby Atmos track is mainly dialog driven, but does a very good job of creating the hectic environment of the studio and makes good use of an expansive front soundstage. There are a few moments in the film that utilize the entire array of speakers, but don’t expect this to be your go-to demo disc.
 
 
Video 9/10
 
Audio 8.5/10 (Dolby Atmos)
 
 
Special Features:

• Remaking Broadcast History
• A Meticulous Undertaking
• The Global Stage
• Screen Actors Guild Q&A
• Producers Guild of America Q&A
• Blu-ray + Digital Copy

 

 
 
Conclusion
September 5 is more than just a recounting of historical events, it’s an exploration of human resilience, the power of media, and showcases the ethical tightrope that the journalists had to walk. Frankly, this film was screwed by not being nominated for an Oscar since it’s one of the best movies I’ve seen all year. Maybe it was snubbed due to its tepid worldwide box office take of only $4.5 million, but when has this topped the Academy? Regardless, it’s a must-watch for anyone interested in history or looking to experience a film that combines intelligence, emotion, and edge-of-your-seat drama. Highly recommended.
 
 
Reference Review System:
JVC DLA-RS3100 4K Ultra High-Definition Front Projector
(Calibrated with Portrait Displays CalMAN color calibration software & C6-HDR Meter from Portrait Displays)
Stewart Filmscreen - Firehawk 110” 2.35:1 Screen
Trinnov Altitude 16 Audio/Video Processor
ATI AT527NC Powering Bed Channels
ATI AT524NC Powering Atmos Speakers
Zidoo UHD8000 Media Player
Panasonic DP-UB820 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player
System Controller: URC MX-990
M&K S-150 THX Ultra (R-C-L Speakers)
M&K SS-150 x4 (Surround Speakers)
Atlantic Technology IC6-OBA x 4 Overhead Speakers
Dual Rythmik FV15HP2
Mini DSP HD controlling all subwoofers

Audioquest and Monoprice - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling

[SRW1000]

Excellent review!  I've been looking forward to this one ever since the disc announcement came out and am happy to hear that it does not disappoint.

Tonally, it sounds similar to the move Argo, with the recreation of a harrowing time featuring characters that are forced into a situation far outside of what they were trained for, leading to a gripping tale, amplified by it being based on real events.

Too bad it was snubbed by both theater audiences and the Acadamy.  Maybe it will find success on home video and streaming?

[David Vaughn]

Excellent review!  I've been looking forward to this one ever since the disc announcement came out and am happy to hear that it does not disappoint.

Tonally, it sounds similar to the move Argo, with the recreation of a harrowing time featuring characters that are forced into a situation far outside of what they were trained for, leading to a gripping tale, amplified by it being based on real events.

Too bad it was snubbed by both theater audiences and the Acadamy.  Maybe it will find success on home video and streaming?

Good call on Argo...I didn't make the connection, but they are similar in that regard. As an aside, I just ordered Spielberg's Munich as a follow-up to this. I have to revisit how the Israelis delivered their payback. They do things the Chicago way!