Munich

Munich

Year: 2005

Runtime: 164 min

Language: English

Director: Steven Spielberg

DramaHistoryThriller

Following the tragic 1972 Munich Olympics massacre, a covert Israeli team is tasked with tracking down and eliminating the eleven Palestinians believed responsible for the attack. Led by a former Mossad operative, the squad undertakes a dangerous mission, traveling across Europe as they pursue their targets. As the operation unfolds, the leader grapples with the complex moral implications of his assignment and the profound consequences of seeking retribution.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Munich (2005)

Trace every key event in Munich (2005) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

The Munich Olympics Tragedy

The film opens with a striking portrayal of the tragic events at the 1972 Munich Olympics, where a horrific terrorist attack leads to the killing of eleven Israeli athletes. This shocking incident becomes the catalyst for the Israeli government to initiate a plan for retaliation.

1972 Munich
2

Planning for Retaliation

In the aftermath of the attack, the Israeli government convenes a meeting, where Prime Minister Golda Meir discusses a retribution strategy dubbed an 'eye for an eye.' A list of eleven targets connected to the massacre is created, setting the stage for a covert operation.

Israel
3

Avner's Selection

Avner Kaufman, an Israeli-born Mossad agent, is selected to lead the assassination squad. During a pivotal discussion held at the Prime Minister's residence, he learns about the gravity of the mission and his new responsibilities, marking the beginning of a dangerous journey.

Israel
4

Formation of the Assassination Squad

To execute the mission with plausible deniability, Avner resigns from Mossad and assembles a team of skilled operatives. The diverse group comprises Steve, Hans, Robert, and Carl, each bringing unique expertise to aid in their deadly endeavors.

Israel
5

First Target: Abdel Wael Zwaiter

The squad's first assignment takes them to Rome, where they successfully track and assassinate Abdel Wael Zwaiter. This operation sets a deadly tone for the team's future missions as they navigate the complexities of their task while ensuring secrecy.

Rome
6

Abortive Operation in Paris

In Paris, Avner and the team target Mahmoud Hamshari. Robert poses as a journalist, but the mission is nearly compromised when Hamshari's daughter unknowingly returns home, forcing the team to abort the hit at the last moment.

Paris
7

Successful Bombing in Cyprus

The team travels to Cyprus where they successfully execute Hussein Al Bashir using a hidden bomb in his hotel room. Despite the success, the explosion raises concerns among the squad about the operation's safety and the collateral damage involved.

Cyprus
8

Intel Gathering in Paris

Avner meets with French informant Louis in Paris to gather crucial intel on three major Palestinian figures. This meeting highlights the importance of their alliance with Louis as they strategize for infiltrating high-security targets.

Paris
9

Infiltration and Execute in Beirut

The assassination team successfully infiltrates a secured compound in Beirut, leading to a strategic operation where they eliminate multiple targets: Muhammad Youssef Al-Najjar, Kamal Adwan, and Kamal Nasser. This mission reinforces their commitment to the overall goal.

Beirut
10

Encounter with PLO Militants

While in Athens, the squad has a tense encounter with PLO militants, testing their resolve and ethics regarding their violent pursuits. This moment raises significant moral questions about their mission and their personal beliefs.

Athens
11

Discovery of Ali Hassan Salameh

Amidst their operations, the team learns of Ali Hassan Salameh, who is revealed to be the mastermind behind the Munich massacre. This discovery intensifies their mission as they prepare to confront the figure they believe is central to their vendetta.

12

Carl's Death in London

While pursuing Salameh in London, an unexpected incident results in the death of Carl at the hands of a mysterious woman, further escalating tensions and fear within the squad. His loss brings personal stakes to the forefront of their already treacherous undertaking.

London
13

Avner's Moral Struggle

Following the loss of his team members, Avner grapples with the moral implications of their missions. This internal conflict grows as the reality of their violent actions weighs heavily on him, leading to questions about justice and vengeance.

14

Return to Israel

Avner returns to Israel, deeply affected by paranoia regarding the safety of his family. In conversations with Ephraim, he expresses doubt about the mission's legitimacy, culminating in a struggle for reconnection to his sense of self amidst the chaos.

Israel
15

The Legacy of Violence

The narrative concludes with a haunting glance at the New York City skyline, symbolizing the weight of their actions. Although nine out of the eleven targets were eliminated, Avner reflects on the lasting implications of their assignments, questioning the notion of justice in a cycle of violence.

New York City

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 01:57

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