Director Tim Fehlbaum's team embarked on a remarkable quest to recreate the 1972 Munich Olympics atmosphere for his film September 5. They sourced 1970s era television equipment from various collectors, museums, and television studio storage rooms. This equipment became the backbone of the set, transporting viewers back in time.

Unveiling the Real-Time Challenges of 1972 Munich Olympics Broadcast

Acquiring the Equipment

The process of obtaining the vintage television equipment was a meticulous one. Director Tim Fehlbaum's team scoured the land, reaching out to collectors who held precious pieces of history. Museums also played a vital role, opening their doors to provide authentic artifacts. And within the television studio storage rooms, hidden gems awaited discovery. This equipment wasn't just any ordinary gear; it was a time capsule that brought the 1970s to life on screen. The cast was trained on using this technology, ensuring that every interaction with the devices was authentic. It was a labor of love to assemble this collection, as it added a layer of authenticity to the film.

For instance, cinematographer Markus Förderer worked closely with the team to ensure that the equipment was set up just right. The cameras, with their vintage charm, captured every moment with a unique flair. The monitors, with their old-school designs, added to the overall aesthetic of the set.

The Munich Olympics Under a Different Light

The 1972 Munich Olympics started with hopes and dreams, but soon took a tragic turn. Armed militants affiliated with Black September took the Israel's Olympic team hostage, leading to a series of events that would forever change the Olympics. ABC Sports, already on the ground covering the sporting events, had to make a dramatic decision to broadcast live as the situation unfolded. This decision put them at the center of history, facing numerous challenges along the way.

Roone Arledge, played by Peter Sarsgaard in the movie, fought vigorously for his division to lead the story. He refused to yield to pressure from ABC News and insisted on providing real-time coverage. The team faced the daunting task of ensuring that their live coverage didn't inadvertently share information with the hostage takers. Every decision they made was a matter of life and death, as they had to balance the need to inform the world with the safety of the hostages.

The Role of ABC Sports Team

Geoffrey Mason, a young ABC Sports producer played by John Magaro, played a critical role in deciding what to show the world. He was pulled in as the coordinating producer of the around-the-clock ABC Sports coverage and had to make quick decisions under pressure. The team faced heftiest challenges, including making sure their live coverage didn't inadvertently share law enforcement's moves with the hostage takers.

Actress Leonie Benesch played the gregarious German interpreter Marianne Gebhard, bringing the news to the team as it unfolded. Her role was crucial in bridging the gap between the events on the ground and the team in the control room. The team worked together seamlessly, despite the chaos around them, to bring the story to the audience.

The Impact on Media Coverage

The 1972 Munich Olympics massacre changed the way media covers breaking news in real time. Journalists had to grapple with how evolving technologies might impact the subjects of reporting and the audience. The broadcast was an early instance of news becoming infotainment, as the team had to find a balance between providing information and keeping the audience engaged.

Roone Arledge's coverage of the 1972 Munich Games won him an Emmy Award and he was inducted into the Olympic Hall of Fame. His innovation in television news laid the foundation for future generations of journalists. The film September 5 serves as a reminder of this important moment in media history.

Using Original ABC Footage

September 5 makes extensive use of original ABC footage, which gives a sense of urgency and dramatic tension. Securing access to this footage was a challenge in itself, but it was worth it. The footage, combined with a tightly written script, transports viewers back to that fateful day.

It distinguishes the film from past cinematic treatments, such as Steven Spielberg's Munich (2005) and Kevin Macdonald's documentary One Day in September (1999). The film offers a unique perspective on the events, focusing on the real-time challenges faced by the broadcasters.