The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo

Plot

A two-year investigation uncovers a scandal behind the making of one of the most recognized photographs of the 20th century. Five decades of secrets are unraveled in the search for justice for a man known only as "the stringer."

About The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo

The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo is a 2025 documentary film directed by Bao Nguyen. Centered on the Vietnam War photograph The Terror of War, more commonly referred to as Napalm Girl, depicting Phan Thi Kim Phuc running from a napalm attack, the film examines whether it was credited to the right photographer. It presents a two-year investigation on the matter, arguing that a photo stringer named Nguyen Thanh Nghe actually took it rather than the officially credited photographer Nick Ut. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 25, 2025. It was a last-minute selection for the festival, having been added to the lineup on January 7. Nguyen Thanh Nghe was in attendance at the premiere screening. There, he said, "I took the photo." The Associated Press (AP) has continuously presented rebutting claims and evidence against the film, primarily with a lengthy report written over the course of six months, as well as supporting statements from Ut, Phuc, and his colleagues. Ut is considering a case for defamation.

From Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.

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