11’09”01 September 11: Re-framing and De-centralizing the 9/11 Narrative

11’09”01 September 11: Re-framing and De-centralizing the 9/11 Narrative

The omnibus film 11’09”01: September 11 represents a seminal critique of the dominant American-centric interpretation of the September 11 attacks, challenging the narrative of a singular, unprecedented event as portrayed by mainstream American media. This study examines the film's exploration of alternative narratives, utilizing diverse forms and themes to present a pluralistic view of the attacks, thereby avoiding the pitfalls of U.S. centeredness. By doing so, it highlights how American patriotism has constrained the range of interpretations since 2001, suppressing alternative voices and perspectives. 11’09”01 offers audiences the opportunity to view the September 11 attacks within a broader historical and geopolitical context, recognizing them as part of a continuum of conflicts and tragedies. Through its unique omnibus format, the film ensures equal representation of the voices of “others,” expanding the narrative scope both chronologically and spatially to include global relations. As the first filmic counter-response to the mainstream discourse on September 11, crafted by eleven directors from across the globe, 11’09”01 opens up new avenues for understanding the attacks, emphasizing the importance of de-centralizing American narratives in global historical events.