This one feels authentic

During the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany, the American sports broadcast team must adapt to live coverage of Israeli athletes being held hostage by a terrorist group. I love authentic historical dramas. Especially from the eras I lived in. It’s a story I know and have seen told in various film formats over the years.

And metaphorical to a fault

As I mentioned in the title above, I found this story to be the most interesting of all. I saw Spielberg’s Munich in the theater many years ago and remember feeling like it was a little too long and over the top. Boring even, I hate to say it. This version of the facts is more tense, the running time of this film is shorter, and the clock is ticking on the film and lives are at stake.

Cigarettes are being smoked

Also, airtime. You’re in the ABC Wide World of Sports control room as tragic terrorist events unfold during the 1972 Olympics in Germany. Rotary phones are being used for communication. A serious crisis is unfolding in the Olympic Village.

But history is almost never pretty

It’s a good history lesson for Generation Z. I think it’s even appropriate for teaching history at the elementary, high school, and above levels, but it’s rated R, so no. John Magaro and Ben Chaplin shine the brightest with their stellar performances. This movie is worth going to the theater to see.

I could learn a little history

It wouldn’t be a bad idea to take your high school kid to see this movie with you. After the session, your kid will come out with you and say, Did that really happen?