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John Magaro’s Journey from Extra to Leading Man in “September 5”
John Magaro has transitioned from a background actor in a Steven Spielberg film to the lead role in his own movie that revisits the same tragic events two decades later. His career trajectory reflects his growth as one of Hollywood’s most adaptable actors, oscillating between independent films and big studio projects like “Not Fade Away” and “Past Lives.” Despite his success, Magaro remains humble and deeply committed to the art of acting, driven by a fervent passion for narrative and a desire to explore the deeper layers of each character he portrays.
In a recent episode of the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, Magaro shares insights about his upcoming project, “September 5,” produced by Paramount Pictures. This dramatic thriller focuses on the harrowing events of the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis, providing an innovative perspective not often depicted in film. He reminisces about his beginnings in the industry, highlighting how he entered as an extra in Spielberg’s 2005 film “Munich,” noting the serendipitous nature of this full-circle moment in his career.
Magaro describes “September 5” as unique due to its emphasis on journalism, drawing comparisons to classic investigative films such as “All the President’s Men” and “Spotlight.” He emphasizes that the story addresses the crucial role of journalists during such crises and how the Munich incident fundamentally transformed media coverage of tragedies in real-time.
While Spielberg’s “Munich” centered on the Israeli government’s actions following the tragedy, “September 5” shifts the lens to the ABC Sports team that reported the devastating events as they unfolded. In this film, Magaro embodies Geoffrey Mason, a young producer navigating one of the most traumatic periods in Olympic history.
To authentically bring this character to life, Magaro immersed himself in the world of broadcast journalism, shadowing professionals in control rooms, including a significant experience at Madison Square Garden. He also had the opportunity to consult directly with Mason. Magaro reflects, “I aimed to grasp the mindset of someone balancing job duties while confronting the horrors happening in real time. It’s not merely about reporting; it’s about upholding integrity when the eyes of the world are upon you.”
This detailed preparation proved critical, particularly in a poignant scene where the broadcast team mistakenly receives hopeful news about the hostages, only to later confront the grim reality. “I sought to portray that blend of shock, regret, and professionalism in my performance,” he shares. This portrayal captures the ethical challenges faced by journalists in moments of crisis, shedding light on the emotional burden experienced by those tasked with narrating these events. His compelling performance has positioned him as a strong contender for a supporting actor nomination.
Magaro’s evolution into a leading actor in “September 5” echoes his lifelong passion for the craft. His initial encounter with Hollywood was as an extra in “Munich.” “Back then, I was just an aspiring actor from New York, and walking past Eric Bana was a thrilling moment for me,” he recalls, chuckling. Although he never met Spielberg, that experience left a profound impression on him. “I often joke that playing an extra in ‘Munich’ equipped me for my role in ‘September 5.’”
Directed by Tim Fehlbaum, “September 5” is gaining attention after its premieres at film festivals in Venice and Telluride, where it won the Audience Award alongside Edward Berger’s “Conclave.”
As the release date for “September 5” approaches on December 13, Magaro has an exciting lineup of upcoming projects. One of the most anticipated is “The Bride,” directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, featuring a stellar ensemble that includes Christian Bale, Jessie Buckley, and Annette Bening. Magaro expresses his awe, stating, “It’s an incredible cast. I found myself on set surrounded by Oscar nominees, and I thought, ‘How did I end up in this position?’”
Additionally, he is set to star in the Paramount+ espionage series “The Agency,” produced by George Clooney, alongside a notable cast including Michael Fassbender, Jeffrey Wright, and Richard Gere. The series, premiering November 29, delves into the psychological ramifications of working in intelligence. “It goes beyond action; it explores the mental and emotional effects this line of work inflicts on individuals,” Magaro articulates.
Discerning audiences can see that Magaro has established himself as a versatile actor, capable of infusing depth and authenticity into every role, whether in indie films, major productions, or television.
This episode of the Variety Awards Circuit podcast also features four-time Oscar-nominated actress Saoirse Ronan, who discusses her performances in the addiction drama “The Outrun” and the World War II film “Blitz.”
Variety’s “Awards Circuit” podcast, hosted by Clayton Davis, Jazz Tangcay, Emily Longeretta, Jenelle Riley, and Michael Schneider, serves as a prominent platform for engaging discussions about film and television. Each episode includes interviews with leading figures in the industry, along with debates and insights into awards seasons and entertainment news. Available on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and Spotify.
Source
variety.com