UPDATE: A groundbreaking documentary titled “The Stringer” has emerged, shedding new light on the origins of one of the most iconic images of the Vietnam War—a photograph of Phan Thi Kim Phuc, a young girl fleeing a napalm attack. This revelation, confirmed by former AP staffer Carl Robinson, questions the long-held belief that the image was captured by Nick Ut.
The photograph, taken during the intense fighting of the North Vietnamese Easter offensive in mid-1972, has become synonymous with the horrors of war. As American and South Vietnamese forces battled, a shocking scene unfolded just 40 miles northwest of the Vietnamese capital, Saigon. Thick black smoke filled the air as Phuc and her brother, both severely burned, ran for their lives.
In a twist that could redefine the narrative of this historic moment, the documentary suggests the photo may have actually been taken by Nguyen Thanh Nghe, a freelance photographer who also submitted his work to the AP bureau in Saigon. Robinson, who worked under AP photo chief Horst Faas, revealed that Faas insisted on crediting Ut for the image, leading to decades of confusion regarding its true authorship.
The documentary explores the chaotic scene surrounding the photo’s capture, with experts analyzing every aspect of the image’s history. It highlights that while the identity of the photographer is in question, the emotional weight of the photograph remains unchanged.
“What really counts is the image, not who shot it,” stated Robinson, emphasizing the importance of the tragedy it represents over the debate about authorship. This sentiment resonates as the documentary aims to raise awareness about the impact of the Vietnam War and the human suffering it caused.
As the documentary gains traction, it has sparked discussions among war correspondents and historians alike. Fiona Turner, the film’s producer, noted that Robinson’s recollections were invaluable in piecing together the timeline of events. However, the controversy surrounding the photo’s credit continues to evoke strong opinions, with both Peter Arnett and Dave Burnett, renowned AP correspondents, standing by Ut’s authorship.
The film, which premiered recently in April 2025 during an event commemorating the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, has already ignited significant debate within journalism circles. As viewers digest the revelations, the question of who truly captured the moment may soon be overshadowed by the image’s enduring legacy.
What happens next remains to be seen, but the documentary is sure to keep the conversation alive about the ethics of war photography and the stories behind the lens. As audiences reflect on the power of the photo, the narrative of the Vietnam War continues to evolve, reminding us of the human cost of conflict.
For those interested in a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in history, “The Stringer” is a must-watch that promises to engage viewers and provoke thoughtful discussion about truth and memory in war.
