September 5 is an upcoming historical drama that tells the emotional story of the 1972 Munich massacre. Directed by Tim Fehlbaum, this film offers a unique perspective by showing the tragic events through the eyes of the ABC Sports crew covering the Olympics.
With a talented cast, including Peter Sarsgaard, John Magaro, Ben Chaplin, and Leonie Benesch, September 5 premiered at the Venice International Film Festival on August 29, 2024. It will have its wide release on January 17, 2025.
Let’s dive into the filming locations and behind-the-scenes details that make this movie so special.
Where Was September 5 Filmed?
The filmmakers chose Germany, particularly Munich, to ensure authenticity in telling this gripping story. They used both real locations and recreated sets to bring the events of 1972 back to life.
Bavaria Studios, Munich, Germany
Address: Bavariafilmpl., 82031 Grünwald, Germany
Bavaria Studios is a famous filming location known for its state-of-the-art facilities. For September 5, the team recreated the ABC Sports control room here.
How Did They Make It Look Real?
- Real equipment from the 1970s was restored and used on set.
- The design showed the tight, high-pressure environment of the control room.
- Monitors played archival footage to create realistic lighting effects.
Olympic Village, Munich
- Some scenes were filmed in the actual Olympic Village to capture the look and feel of 1970s Munich.
- The outdoor and indoor shots recreated key moments during the tragic hostage crisis.
City Streets of Munich
- Other locations in Munich were used to show the bustling city atmosphere, blending the drama of the real events with the film’s storytelling.
When Was September 5 Filmed?
Filming took place during the summer and early fall of 2023. This time was chosen to match Munich’s summer appearance during the 1972 Olympics.
The production team worked hard to make everything feel authentic:
- Raw Performances: Actors rehearsed very little to keep their emotions fresh and real.
- Handheld Cameras: Many scenes were filmed with handheld cameras for a live, TV-like feel.
- 16mm Film: The crew used this old film style to make the new scenes blend with archival footage seamlessly.
Behind the Scenes
Director Tim Fehlbaum and his team spent months researching the Munich massacre to ensure accuracy.
- Archival Footage: Real footage from ABC’s 1972 Olympics coverage was included.
- Historical Sets: The production design team worked tirelessly to recreate the ABC Sports broadcasting facility.
- Actor Preparation: The cast studied their characters deeply, with some roles inspired by real-life figures like Roone Arledge (played by Peter Sarsgaard), the president of ABC Sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where was September 5 filmed?
A: The movie was filmed at Bavaria Studios in Munich, Germany, with additional scenes in Munich’s Olympic Village and city streets.
Q: When did September 5 premiere?
A: The movie premiered on August 29, 2024, at the Venice International Film Festival.
Q: Who stars in September 5?
A: The film stars Peter Sarsgaard, John Magaro, Ben Chaplin, and Leonie Benesch in key roles.
Q: When was September 5 filmed?
A: Filming took place during the summer and early fall of 2023.
Final Thoughts
September 5 is not just a movie; it’s a tribute to the resilience of those who faced unimaginable tragedy. The authentic filming locations, heartfelt performances, and careful direction make it a must-watch for history lovers and movie fans alike.
Mark your calendars for January 17, 2025, and get ready to experience a powerful story that brings history to life.