September 5
During the 1972 Munich Olympics, an ABC Sports crew finds itself caught in the heart of a hostage crisis, battling technical challenges and ethical dilemmas to bring the world the story.
See other logline suggestionsOverview
Unique Selling Point
The screenplay's USP lies in its ability to artfully blend real-world historical events with a deeply personal and emotionally resonant story. By focusing on the experiences of the ABC Sports crew, the writer creates a unique perspective that allows the audience to witness the unfolding tragedy through the eyes of those tasked with reporting on it. The screenplay's strong character development, particularly the journey of Geoff Mason, and its exploration of the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the crew, make it a compelling and thought-provoking piece of storytelling that sets it apart from other sports-related dramas.
AI Verdict & Suggestions
Ratings are subjective. So you get different engines' ratings to compare.
Hover over verdict cards for Executive Summaries
Recommend
Recommend
Recommend
Story Facts
Genres: Drama, Thriller, Sports, Historical, Comedy
Setting: 1972, Munich, Germany during the Summer Olympics
Themes: The ethical dilemmas of live broadcasting during a crisis., The contrast between the carefree atmosphere of the Olympics and the horrific reality of the terrorist attack., The cultural clash between German and American perspectives on the event., The personal toll of witnessing trauma and the human cost of conflict., The power of live television to shape public perception and influence events.
Conflict & Stakes: The primary conflict revolves around the urgent and chaotic situation of the hostage crisis during the Olympics, with the stakes being the safety of the hostages and the ethical implications of broadcasting the events live.
Mood: Tense and urgent, with moments of somber reflection.
Standout Features:
- Unique Hook: The real-time coverage of a hostage crisis during a major international sporting event, blending sports and journalism.
- Major Twist: The unexpected escalation of the hostage situation, leading to tragic outcomes that challenge the characters' moral compasses.
- Distinctive Setting: The backdrop of the 1972 Munich Olympics, a historically significant event that adds depth and urgency to the narrative.
- Innovative Ideas: Exploration of the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in crisis situations, highlighting the impact of media on real-world events.
Comparable Scripts: The Killing Fields, All the President's Men, Spotlight, The Report, The Day the Clown Cried, The Newsroom, The Munich Massacre, The Siege, The Bourne Ultimatum
Screenplay Video
The video is a bit crude as the tool is still Alpha code. Contact us if there's a problem or with suggestions.
Share Your Analysis
Sharing
Share URL:
September 5 Synopsis
Synopsis
Set against the backdrop of the 1972 Munich Olympics, 'September 5' chronicles the harrowing events of a terrorist attack that forever altered the course of the Games and the lives of those involved. The story begins in the control room of ABC Sports, where the dedicated team is preparing for the live coverage of the Olympics. The tension is palpable as they strive to deliver the best broadcast possible, led by the visionary Roone Arledge, who is determined to capture the essence of the Games. As the world watches, the excitement of athletic competition is abruptly overshadowed by a chilling incident: a group of Palestinian terrorists infiltrates the Olympic Village, taking members of the Israeli team hostage.
The narrative follows Geoff Mason, a junior producer at ABC Sports, who is eager to prove himself in the high-stakes environment of live television. As the situation escalates, Geoff finds himself at the center of the unfolding crisis, juggling the demands of his superiors and the urgency of the news. The film captures the frantic energy of the control room as the crew scrambles to report on the hostage situation while maintaining their Olympic coverage. The tension mounts as they receive conflicting reports about the hostages' fate, and the crew must navigate the ethical dilemmas of broadcasting such sensitive material.
As the day progresses, the film delves into the personal stories of the characters, revealing their hopes, fears, and the weight of their responsibilities. The audience witnesses the emotional toll the crisis takes on the team, particularly on Geoff, who grapples with the implications of their coverage. The film juxtaposes the thrill of athletic achievement with the horror of violence, highlighting the fragility of life and the impact of global politics on individual lives.
The climax of the film occurs during a chaotic standoff at the airport, where the hostages are being transported. The tension reaches a fever pitch as gunfire erupts, and the audience is left on the edge of their seats, unsure of the outcome. The aftermath of the attack leaves a profound mark on the characters, particularly Geoff, who must confront the reality of what has transpired and the role he played in it.
In the end, 'September 5' serves as a poignant reminder of the intersection of sports and politics, the human cost of terrorism, and the resilience of those who strive to tell the stories that matter. The film concludes with a somber reflection on the events, leaving the audience to ponder the lasting impact of that fateful day on the world stage.
Script Level Analysis
This section delivers a top-level assessment of the screenplay’s strengths and weaknesses — covering overall quality (P/C/R/HR), character development, emotional impact, thematic depth, narrative inconsistencies, and the story’s core philosophical conflict. It helps identify what’s resonating, what needs refinement, and how the script aligns with professional standards.
Screenplay Insights
Breaks down your script along various categories.
Story Critique
Characters
Explores the depth, clarity, and arc of the main and supporting characters.
Emotional Analysis
Breaks down the emotional journey of the audience across the script.
Goals and Philosophical Conflict
Logic & Inconsistencies
Scene Analysis
All of your scenes analyzed individually and compared, so you can zero in on what to improve.
Analysis of the Scene Percentiles
- High plot rating (87.37) indicates a strong and engaging storyline that likely keeps the audience invested.
- Excellent pacing score (91.87) suggests that the screenplay maintains a compelling rhythm, enhancing viewer engagement.
- Strong stakes (86.14) imply that the screenplay effectively raises the tension and importance of the characters' goals.
- Character rating (26.88) is notably low, indicating a need for deeper character development and more relatable or complex characters.
- Originality score (21.39) suggests that the screenplay may rely on familiar tropes or ideas, and could benefit from more unique concepts.
- Engagement score (42.77) indicates that the screenplay may not fully captivate the audience, suggesting a need for more dynamic scenes or interactions.
The writer appears to be more conceptual, with strengths in plot and structure but weaknesses in character development and dialogue.
Balancing Elements- Enhance character arcs and depth to complement the strong plot, ensuring characters are as engaging as the story.
- Incorporate more original ideas or twists to elevate the originality score and make the screenplay stand out.
- Focus on improving dialogue to better reflect character personalities and enhance emotional impact.
Conceptual
Overall AssessmentThe screenplay shows strong potential with a compelling plot and pacing, but it requires significant improvement in character development and originality to fully resonate with audiences.
How scenes compare to the Scripts in our Library
Other Analyses
This section looks at the extra spark — your story’s voice, style, world, and the moments that really stick. These insights might not change the bones of the script, but they can make it more original, more immersive, and way more memorable. It’s where things get fun, weird, and wonderfully you.
Unique Voice
Writer's Craft
Memorable Lines
World Building
Unique Voice
Writer's Craft
Memorable Lines
World Building
Script•o•Scope
Pass / Consider / Recommend Analysis
Gemini
Executive Summary
- The screenplay excels at building tension and suspense, particularly in the control room scenes where the immediacy of live television is palpable. The opening scene effectively establishes the central conflict, and the later scenes maintain a constant sense of urgency and high stakes. high ( Scene 1 Scene 4 Scene 26 )
- The character of Roone Arledge is well-developed, showing a complex blend of ambition, vulnerability, and a deep understanding of the power of storytelling. His decisions drive the narrative, and his interactions with other characters create significant conflict and tension. high ( Scene 5 Scene 6 Scene 19 Scene 20 )
- The screenplay effectively depicts the collaborative spirit and dedication of the ABC Sports team. The characters work together to overcome technical challenges and maintain composure under extreme pressure, showcasing their professionalism and resilience. medium ( Scene 10 Scene 12 Scene 19 Scene 21 Scene 29 )
- The screenplay effectively uses the tools of television production to enhance the narrative. The use of multiple cameras, live feeds, and editing techniques create a sense of realism and urgency. This adds layers of complexity to the story. high ( Scene 21 Scene 22 Scene 24 Scene 29 )
- The ending of the film is emotionally resonant and leaves a lasting impact on the audience. The aftermath of the tragedy is poignantly portrayed, highlighting the emotional toll on the characters and reflecting the lasting impact of the event. high ( Scene 58 Scene 59 )
- The screenplay occasionally lapses into melodrama, particularly in some of the dialogue and emotional reactions of the characters. Some scenes feel overly sentimental, detracting from the overall tension and realism. medium ( Scene 7 Scene 56 )
- The pacing in the latter half of the screenplay feels a bit rushed, particularly during the climax and resolution. Some plot points are resolved too quickly, leaving the audience with a sense of incompleteness. medium ( Scene 50 Scene 54 )
- The thematic consistency could be strengthened. While the screenplay explores themes of journalistic responsibility and the human cost of conflict, these themes aren't consistently emphasized throughout. Some scenes are more focused on the technical aspects of the broadcast than the human drama. medium ( Scene 20 Scene 36 )
- Some supporting characters, while functional to the plot, feel underdeveloped. Giving more depth to these individuals would strengthen the overall narrative. low ( Scene 8 Scene 18 Scene 22 )
- A more detailed exploration of the aftermath and long-term consequences of the Munich massacre would add depth and resonance to the screenplay. The immediate aftermath is addressed, but the longer-term effects could be explored further. medium
- More character backstory, especially for the supporting characters, would enhance their relatability and provide a richer understanding of their motivations. low
- The screenplay creatively uses the ABC Sports logo as a symbol of the network's relentless pursuit of the story, even when facing ethical dilemmas. high ( Scene 29 Scene 55 )
- The use of multiple narrative threads, including the main plot in the control room, the reports from Peter Jennings, Howard Cosell, and Marianne Gebhardt's investigation, adds layers of complexity and suspense to the story. high ( Scene 49 Scene 50 )
- Underestimation of the emotional impact on the audience. While the screenplay captures the emotional intensity of the events, it occasionally underestimates the potential emotional impact on the audience. The swift transitions between tense scenes and lighter moments, particularly towards the end, can disrupt the emotional flow and undermine the gravity of the situation. medium
- Inconsistent character motivations While Roone Arledge's character is well-developed, some supporting characters' motivations feel inconsistent or under-explained. For instance, some crew members' reactions to the unfolding crisis seem abrupt or lack sufficient emotional depth, potentially disrupting the audience's connection to the story. low
GPT4
Executive Summary
- The screenplay effectively establishes a high-stakes environment, immersing the audience in the urgency and pressure of live broadcasting during a crisis. high ( Scene Sequence number 1 (INT. ABC SPORTS’ 1972 OLYMPICS STUDIO, CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene Sequence number 4 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- Character development is strong, particularly for Geoff Mason, whose journey from an ambitious junior producer to a key player in a crisis is compelling and relatable. high ( Scene Sequence number 2 (INT. HOTEL SHERATON, MUNICH - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 6 (INT. HALLWAY - NIGHT) )
- The dialogue is sharp and realistic, effectively conveying the tension and urgency of the situation while also revealing character motivations. medium ( Scene Sequence number 11 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 25 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) )
- The screenplay successfully captures the emotional weight of the events, particularly in scenes depicting the aftermath of the crisis and its impact on the characters. high ( Scene Sequence number 39 (INT. TRANSMISSION ROOM - DAY) Scene Sequence number 56 (INT. ROONE’S OFFICE - NIGHT) )
- The pacing is generally effective, with a good balance between action and character moments, keeping the audience engaged throughout. medium ( Scene Sequence number 10 (INT. VTR ROOM - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 60 (INT. ROONE’S OFFICE - NIGHT) )
- Some scenes feel slightly rushed, particularly in the early sections where character introductions could be more fleshed out to enhance emotional investment. medium ( Scene Sequence number 3 (INT. ABC TV STUDIO, CORRIDOR, HALLWAY - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 5 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- There are moments where the technical jargon and operations could be simplified for broader audience understanding without losing authenticity. medium ( Scene Sequence number 12 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 14 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) )
- The screenplay could benefit from deeper exploration of secondary characters to provide a more rounded perspective on the events. medium ( Scene Sequence number 19 (INT. HALLWAY - DAY) Scene Sequence number 28 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) )
- Some plot threads, particularly regarding the motivations of the terrorists, could be more clearly defined to enhance narrative clarity. medium ( Scene Sequence number 22 (INT. VTR LIBRARY - DAY) Scene Sequence number 47 (INT. HALLWAY - DAY) )
- The resolution of character arcs, particularly for supporting characters, feels somewhat abrupt and could be more satisfying. medium ( Scene Sequence number 30 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene Sequence number 59 (INT. HALLWAY - NIGHT) )
- There is a lack of exploration into the personal lives of the characters, which could add depth and relatability to their motivations. high ( Scene Sequence number 7 (INT. VTR LIBRARY - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 15 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) )
- The screenplay could benefit from more visual storytelling elements to enhance the emotional impact of key scenes. medium ( Scene Sequence number 8 (INT. VTR ROOM - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 18 (INT. STUDIO STAGE - NIGHT) )
- There is a missed opportunity to delve into the historical context of the events, which could enrich the narrative. medium ( Scene Sequence number 24 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene Sequence number 34 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) )
- The screenplay lacks a clear thematic resolution, leaving some questions about the implications of the events unanswered. medium ( Scene Sequence number 40 (INT. HALLWAY - DAY) Scene Sequence number 52 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The emotional aftermath of the events could be explored more deeply, particularly in relation to the characters' futures. medium ( Scene Sequence number 50 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 58 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The opening sequence is particularly strong, setting the tone and urgency for the entire screenplay while introducing key characters effectively. high ( Scene Sequence number 1 (INT. ABC SPORTS’ 1972 OLYMPICS STUDIO, CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene Sequence number 4 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The use of real historical footage and references adds authenticity and weight to the narrative, enhancing its impact. high ( Scene Sequence number 10 (INT. VTR ROOM - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 30 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) )
- The screenplay effectively balances the technical aspects of broadcasting with the emotional stakes of the characters, creating a rich narrative tapestry. medium ( Scene Sequence number 12 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) Scene Sequence number 22 (INT. VTR LIBRARY - DAY) )
- The emotional weight of the events is palpable, particularly in scenes depicting the aftermath and the characters' responses to tragedy. high ( Scene Sequence number 39 (INT. TRANSMISSION ROOM - DAY) Scene Sequence number 56 (INT. ROONE’S OFFICE - NIGHT) )
- The screenplay's ability to maintain tension and suspense throughout, particularly in the lead-up to the climax, is commendable. high ( Scene Sequence number 44 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene Sequence number 59 (INT. HALLWAY - NIGHT) )
- Character Depth The screenplay occasionally neglects to provide deeper insights into the motivations and backgrounds of secondary characters, which could enhance the overall narrative. For instance, while Geoff Mason's character is well-developed, others like Jacques and Bader could benefit from more backstory to enrich their roles. medium
- Pacing Issues Certain sequences feel rushed, particularly in the early parts of the screenplay where character introductions could be more gradual. This can lead to a lack of emotional investment from the audience in those characters. For example, the transition from the excitement of the Olympics to the unfolding crisis could be smoother to maintain engagement. medium
Claude
Executive Summary
- The screenplay opens with a strong sense of character and setting, introducing Geoff Mason and establishing the high-stakes, fast-paced environment of the ABC Sports crew. This lays the groundwork for the narrative and character development that follows. high ( Scene 2 (INT. HOTEL SHERATON, MUNICH - NIGHT) Scene 3 (INT. ABC TV STUDIO, CORRIDOR, HALLWAY - NIGHT) )
- The screenplay's handling of the unfolding crisis, with the crew's attempts to report on the situation in real-time, is particularly well-executed. The tension and emotional weight of the events are palpable, and the characters' reactions feel genuine and grounded. high ( Scene 25 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene 27 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) )
- The screenplay's use of visual storytelling, with the integration of news footage, camera angles, and technical elements, effectively immerses the audience in the high-stakes, chaotic environment of the ABC Sports crew's coverage. high ( Scene 38 (INT. EDITING ROOM - DAY (FORMERLY 55)) Scene 52 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The character development of Geoff Mason, particularly his evolution from an ambitious and eager young producer to a more thoughtful and reflective individual by the end of the screenplay, is a strength that grounds the narrative and adds emotional depth. high ( Scene 29 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene 58 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The screenplay's attention to detail and the inclusion of the behind-the-scenes technical aspects of live television production enhance the authenticity of the story and provide a unique perspective on the unfolding events. medium ( Scene 8 (INT. VTR ROOM - NIGHT) Scene 31 (INT. EDITING ROOM - DAY) )
- While the screenplay effectively portrays the chaos and uncertainty of the situation, there are moments where the decision-making process of the ABC Sports crew could be more clearly defined and explored. Providing additional insight into their thought processes and the rationale behind their choices could further strengthen the narrative. medium ( Scene 25 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene 52 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The screenplay could benefit from additional development and exploration of the German authorities' perspective and their attempts to respond to the crisis. Providing more insight into their decision-making and the challenges they faced could add complexity to the narrative and create a more balanced portrayal of the events. medium ( Scene 40 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) Scene 41 (INT. TRANSMISSION ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The emotional impact of the tragedy and the aftermath could be further explored, particularly in terms of the long-term consequences for the characters and the broader impact on the Olympic Games and the world. Expanding on these elements could enhance the screenplay's thematic depth and resonance. medium ( Scene 55 (INT. ROONE'S OFFICE - NIGHT) Scene 58 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- While the screenplay effectively portrays the experiences of the ABC Sports crew, it could benefit from a more balanced exploration of the perspectives and experiences of the Israeli athletes and their families. Providing additional insight into their stories and the human impact of the tragedy could further strengthen the narrative. medium ( Scene 29 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene 52 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The screenplay could potentially benefit from a more explicit exploration of the broader historical and political context surrounding the 1972 Munich Olympics, particularly in terms of the tensions between Israel and the Arab world. Providing additional context and background information could enhance the thematic depth and relevance of the story. medium ( Scene 1 (INT. ABC SPORTS' 1972 OLYMPICS STUDIO, CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene 60 (INT. ROONE'S OFFICE - NIGHT) )
- The screenplay's portrayal of the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by the ABC Sports crew, particularly in their decision-making around the coverage of the crisis, is a notable strength. The characters' struggles to balance their journalistic responsibilities with the human impact of the tragedy adds complexity and depth to the narrative. high ( Scene 29 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene 52 (INT. CONTROL ROOM - NIGHT) )
- The screenplay's use of technical elements, such as the integration of live television production, camera angles, and editing techniques, is a notable strength that enhances the authenticity and immersive quality of the story. high ( Scene 1 (INT. ABC SPORTS' 1972 OLYMPICS STUDIO, CONTROL ROOM - DAY) Scene 38 (INT. EDITING ROOM - DAY (FORMERLY 55)) )
- The screenplay's exploration of the emotional impact and aftermath of the tragedy, particularly through the lens of the characters' personal journeys, is a notable strength that adds depth and resonance to the narrative. high ( Scene 51 (INT. EDITING ROOM - NIGHT) Scene 59 (INT. HALLWAY - NIGHT) )
- Lack of Diverse Perspectives While the screenplay effectively portrays the experiences of the ABC Sports crew, it could benefit from a more balanced exploration of the perspectives and stories of the Israeli athletes and their families. Providing additional insight into their experiences and the human impact of the tragedy could enhance the screenplay's depth and resonance. medium
- Underdeveloped Side Characters In some instances, the secondary characters, such as the German officials and the police officers, could be further developed to provide a more well-rounded portrayal of the various perspectives and challenges involved in the crisis. Strengthening these supporting characters could add complexity and nuance to the narrative. low
Screenplay Insights:
Characters: 7.1, The screenplay 'September 5' demonstrates strong character development, particularly through the arcs of Geoff, Bader, and Roone, who evolve significantly in response to the unfolding crisis. However, some characters, like Jacques and Carter, could benefit from deeper exploration to enhance their complexity and relatability. Overall, the screenplay effectively intertwines character journeys with the themes of responsibility and the ethical dilemmas of journalism, but there is room for improvement in character diversity and dialogue specificity. See More
Premise: 7.9, The screenplay 'September 5' effectively establishes a compelling premise centered around the 1972 Munich Olympics and the unfolding crisis involving the Israeli team. The narrative is rich with historical context and character depth, but there are opportunities to enhance clarity and engagement, particularly in the initial setup and character motivations. See More
Structure: 7.8, The screenplay 'September 5' effectively captures the tension and urgency of a historical event through a well-structured narrative that intertwines personal and professional stakes. The character arcs are compelling, particularly Geoff's transformation from a confident producer to a responsible leader. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in pacing and the clarity of certain plot points, which could enhance audience engagement and emotional impact. See More
Theme: 7.8, The screenplay 'September 5' effectively conveys its themes of journalistic responsibility, the impact of media on crises, and the human cost of conflict. It presents a nuanced exploration of the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists during a tragic event, highlighting the emotional weight of their decisions. However, there are areas where the thematic depth could be enhanced, particularly in character development and the integration of personal stakes. Overall, the screenplay resonates well with contemporary issues but could benefit from a more focused approach to its themes. See More
Visual Impact: 7.2, The screenplay 'September 5' effectively captures the tension and urgency of the 1972 Olympics through its visual imagery, particularly in scenes depicting the control room's frantic atmosphere and the emotional weight of the events. The use of close-ups and significant visual elements enhances the storytelling, making it impactful and engaging. However, there are opportunities to deepen the emotional resonance and creativity of the visual descriptions. See More
Emotional Impact: 7.9, The screenplay 'September 5' effectively elicits emotional responses through its portrayal of high-stakes journalism during a crisis, particularly through the character arcs of Geoff, Bader, and Roone. However, there are opportunities to enhance emotional depth by further exploring the characters' vulnerabilities and the ethical dilemmas they face, which could lead to a more profound emotional resonance with the audience. See More
Conflict: 7.6, The screenplay effectively presents conflict and stakes, particularly through the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters during a crisis. However, there are opportunities to enhance narrative tension by deepening character motivations and exploring the emotional ramifications of their decisions. See More
Originality: 7.6, The screenplay 'September 5' showcases a compelling blend of historical events and character-driven narratives, effectively capturing the tension and urgency of the 1972 Munich Olympics crisis. Its originality lies in the nuanced portrayal of media professionals navigating ethical dilemmas amidst a backdrop of real-world tragedy, while the character arcs provide depth and emotional resonance. See More
Screenplay Story Analysis
Note: This is the overall critique. For scene by scene critique click here
-
Character Roone Arledge
Description While the character is established as a demanding and driven executive, his sudden shifts between disinterest and intense focus, particularly concerning the news coverage, sometimes lack smooth transitions. His behaviour feels occasionally plot-driven rather than organically stemming from his character's internal motivations and reactions.
( Scene 1 Scene 5 Scene 20 Scene 21 Scene 27 Scene 37 Scene 47 Scene 54 Scene 55 Scene 56 Scene 57 ) -
Character Geoff Mason
Description Geoff's rapid escalation from a junior producer to a seemingly effortless directorial figure in crisis lacks believability. His quick grasp of complex situations and calm decision-making feel somewhat imposed by the plot's need for a competent central character rather than emerging from his established character traits.
( Scene 12 Scene 19 Scene 23 Scene 37 Scene 41 Scene 57 )
-
Description The sudden shift in focus to the broader political context after the initial hostage crisis is somewhat abrupt. The narrative could benefit from a smoother transition to explore the implications of the event for Germany and the wider world.
( Scene 49 ) -
Description The sudden revelation that all the hostages were killed at the airport lacks sufficient foreshadowing or build-up. The news comes as a jarring shock, disrupting the emotional arc and feeling unearned.
( Scene 56 )
-
Description The German police's decision to shut down ABC's cameras during the assault on the apartment is illogical. It creates a major plot hole because the immediate need to cut the feed comes across as a plot device rather than a logical consequence of the evolving situation.
( Scene 41 Scene 42 ) -
Description The sudden and definitive confirmation of all hostages' deaths is rushed. The lack of detailed information on how the news was verified weakens the narrative's believability.
( Scene 52 )
-
Description Some of the dialogue, particularly the rapid-fire exchanges between crew members in tense moments, feels overly stylized and lacks the natural rhythm of realistic conversations under pressure. This is especially apparent in many of the fast-paced exchanges between Geoff, Jacques and other crew members.
( Scene 25 ) -
Description The casual use of the term "fucking Arabs" by Hank, while potentially reflective of some attitudes at the time, feels jarring and tonally inconsistent with the otherwise sensitive portrayal of the overall situation. It risks alienating the audience and undercutting the screenplay's broader themes.
( Scene 34 )
-
Element Repetitive use of walkie-talkies and phone calls
( Scene 12 Scene 13 Scene 14 Scene 19 Scene 22 Scene 27 Scene 33 Scene 46 Scene 48 Scene 50 )
Suggestion Streamline communication methods. Instead of multiple walkie-talkie and phone conversations repeating information, consider consolidating scenes or using more efficient methods to convey crucial updates. -
Element Repetitive emphasis on live broadcast aspects
( Scene 1 Scene 4 Scene 27 Scene 29 Scene 36 Scene 44 Scene 46 )
Suggestion While the emphasis on the live broadcast's importance is understandable, the constant reiteration of "live," "on-air," and technical details can be reduced to maintain narrative flow and avoid repetition. Subtle cues could replace explicit statements in several scenes.
Geoff - Score: 76/100
Character Analysis Overview
Marianne - Score: 74/100
Character Analysis Overview
Roone - Score: 89/100
Role
Protagonist
Character Analysis Overview
Bader - Score: 71/100
Role
Supporting Character
Character Analysis Overview
Jacques - Score: 64/100
Role
supporting character
Character Analysis Overview
Carter - Score: 59/100
Character Analysis Overview
Jennings - Score: 79/100
Character Analysis Overview
Theme Analysis Overview
Identified Themes
| Theme | Theme Details | Theme Explanation | Primary Theme Support | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
The ethical dilemmas of live broadcasting during a crisis.
35%
|
The constant tension between the desire to inform the public and the need to avoid exploiting the tragedy, the debate on what to broadcast, and when.
|
This theme explores the moral complexities faced by the broadcasters as they grapple with decisions about what to show and how to report on a live unfolding tragedy involving hostages. |
This is a crucial sub-theme of the primary theme, highlighting the core conflict within the narrative: the struggle to maintain journalistic integrity while dealing with intense human suffering.
|
||||||||||||
Strengthening The ethical dilemmas of live broadcasting during a crisis.
|
|||||||||||||||
|
The contrast between the carefree atmosphere of the Olympics and the horrific reality of the terrorist attack.
25%
|
The juxtaposition of celebratory sports events with the grim events of the Munich massacre creates a stark contrast, underscoring the fragility of peace and the unexpected intrusion of violence.
|
This stark contrast amplifies the emotional impact of the narrative, showcasing the surreal and jarring experience of those present. |
This contrast directly impacts the crew's emotional state and their decision-making processes, thus directly supporting the primary theme.
|
||||||||||||
|
The cultural clash between German and American perspectives on the event.
20%
|
The differences in communication styles, cultural sensitivities, and perceptions of the crisis between German and American characters influence their interactions and responses.
|
This highlights the varying cultural interpretations of the crisis, affecting communication and decision-making during the event. |
This cultural clash contributes to the communication challenges faced by the broadcasting team, making their task more complex and underscoring the primary theme's emphasis on navigating a high-pressure environment.
|
||||||||||||
|
The personal toll of witnessing trauma and the human cost of conflict.
10%
|
The characters' emotional responses to the unfolding events – their shock, grief, fear, and exhaustion – underscore the human cost of the massacre.
|
This offers a more personal and intimate perspective, moving beyond the journalistic aspects to reveal the deeply emotional impact of the tragedy on individuals. |
This human element contributes to the emotional weight of the broadcast and its profound impact on those involved, ultimately strengthening the exploration of journalistic responsibility during a crisis.
|
||||||||||||
|
The power of live television to shape public perception and influence events.
10%
|
The screenplay highlights how ABC's broadcast of the event played a crucial role in shaping public understanding and impacting the immediate course of events at the Olympic Village.
|
This illustrates how live television can function as a powerful tool for both informing and influencing events in real-time. |
This theme directly relates to the central conflict, highlighting the impact of the broadcast’s choices on the unfolding crisis, thus strengthening the primary theme.
|
||||||||||||
Screenwriting Resources on Themes
Articles
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Studio Binder | Movie Themes: Examples of Common Themes for Screenwriters |
| Coverfly | Improving your Screenplay's theme |
| John August | Writing from Theme |
YouTube Videos
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Story, Plot, Genre, Theme - Screenwriting Basics | Screenwriting basics - beginner video |
| What is theme | Discussion on ways to layer theme into a screenplay. |
| Thematic Mistakes You're Making in Your Script | Common Theme mistakes and Philosophical Conflicts |
Scene by Scene Emotions