With support from the University of Richmond

History News Network

History News Network puts current events into historical perspective. Subscribe to our newsletter for new perspectives on the ways history continues to resonate in the present. Explore our archive of thousands of original op-eds and curated stories from around the web. Join us to learn more about the past, now.

Spielberg's Munich triggers a divided response among initial viewers

Steven Spielberg calls his latest movie, "Munich," a prayer for peace.

But the filmmaker's tale of the Israeli hit team avenging the 1972 massacre of 11 of its Olympic athletes is already dividing viewers. One of the year's most anticipated movies and a potential Oscar contender, "Munich" has triggered debate among audiences -- including Oscar voters -- who have been the first to see it.

Some are finding fault with how the film tries to balance the initial terrorist act with the retaliation that followed. Others are challenging the historical accuracy of the book "Vengeance," by George Jonas, upon which the movie was based. While some commend Spielberg for creating multidimensional characters in an attempt to humanize the conflict, not everyone is applauding that approach.

As Spielberg avoids the traditional junketeering on the eve of the film's premiere, the marketing forces have staged screenings for community leaders and opinion-makers in Los Angeles, Washington, Berlin, Munich, Paris and Tel Aviv.

Heading the effort in Israel, where the movie has triggered mixed response: one of Ariel Sharon's top strategists, Eyal Arad. Last week, a screening held for the widows of two of the slain athletes was attended by producer Kathleen Kennedy and writer Tony Kushner, who have been touring Europe with the film.