Spielberg deals with reality once again to good effect

Rating: 8/10 (1 February 2006)

I have to confess to not knowing as much as I think I ought to about the continuing problems in Israel. The events of Munich 1972 were previously unknown to me other than the basic premise that there was a terrorist attack. For someone who may not grasp why even today Palestine and Israel are at each other's throats Munich provides some of the ideals at the core of the problem. The film, as with Schindler's List, doesn't hold back from showing you the realities of events that have happened, which perhaps adds to its impact.
The film as a form of entertainment may not hold the attention of some but instead is more of a case study into terrorism and counter terrorism. Eric Bana provides a really good performance as the central character helping form a human connection to the story. It is also not a specific side driven piece even if it is told from one point of view it doesn't sugar-coat everything. The reality is quite shocking and Spielberg's direction as usual is excellent, it is also helped by a good script that only begins to lose its pace by the end of what is quite a long film.
I would recommend people seeing this in order that, as with the holocaust in Schindler's List, it becomes more than just history, even with fictional characters and events mixed into the actual events. This makes it more real and increases your understanding and perception of what could otherwise just be events happening a while ago in far off places. The atmosphere is tense and is heightened by the music of the ever reliable genius that is John Williams. Along with Bana there are also good supporting roles for Geoffrey Rush and Ciaran Hinds who added two very interesting characters.
Munich may have caused controversy but you have to really try to fault Spielberg as a film maker. Whether its dinosaurs, terrorists or alien invasions he somehow finds an extra level that most other directors don't reach.