Paramount Pictures has announced plans to debut the celebrated newsroom drama “September 5” in select theaters on November 27. The movie tells the behind-the-scenes story of ABC Sports’ coverage of the deadly 1972 Munich Olympics attack. It will expand nationwide in December, positioning it for award season success.
Directed by Tim Fehlbaum, “September 5” follows ABC Sports chief Roone Arledge as he leads live coverage of the crisis. Palestinian militant group Black September took Israeli athletes hostage at the Olympics. Peter Sarsgaard stars as Arledge, forced to manageABC’s broadcast as the attack unfolded.
The film garnered praise after premiering at the Venice Film Festival earlier this year. Paramount Global’s Republic Pictures then acquired distribution rights. Brian Robbins, co-CEO of the Paramount film division, decided adding “September 5” complemented their fall awards hopefuls like “Better Man” and “Gladiator II.”
Experts say the addition of “September 5” provides much-needed filler to an otherwise thin year for potential best picture nominees. Strong reviews from Venice and buzz from industry professionals have boosted expectations. John Magaro and Ben Chaplin also star in the emotional retelling praised for its historical accuracy.
Tim Fehlbaum wrote and directed “September 5,” co-writing the script with Moritz Binder and Alex David. Sean Penn joined as a producer on the project examining a pivotal broadcast news event. Paramount will handle distribution worldwide except in parts of Europe, where Constantin Films assumes release duties.
Audiences will have the rare opportunity to see “September 5” on theater screens. It joins a crowded specialty box office but stands out for its unique retelling of an important historical moment. As movie theaters work to rebound from pandemic disruption, Paramount’s commitment to releasing “September 5” displays faith in both cinemas and demand for real-life dramatic stories.
