The Stringer: Uncovering the Truth Behind the Infamous Napalm Girl Photo

On October 10, 2023, the highly anticipated documentary film "The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo" was released on Netflix. This movie has been making waves in the media world, sparking curiosity and debate about one of the most iconic images of the Vietnam War: the Napalm Girl.

Who is The Stringer?

For those who may not be familiar with the term "The Stringer," let us dive into the story of Anthony Capella, a.k.a. "The Stringer." Capella was an American photographer and journalist who worked for the Associated Press (AP) in Vietnam during the late 1960s.

The Famous Napalm Girl Photo

On June 8, 1965, a nine-year-old girl named Phan Thị Kim Phúc was photographed by Nick Ut, another AP photographer, while fleeing a napalm bombing raid in the village of Trang Bang. The image, which has become an enduring symbol of the horrors of war, shows Kim Phúc's severe burns and disfigured face.

The Mystery Surrounding the Photo

However, what is less well-known is that another photographer, Anthony Capella, claimed to have taken the iconic photo. Capella alleged that he had captured the image before Ut, but his claim was never thoroughly investigated or verified.

"The Stringer": A Film About Uncovering the Truth

"The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo" delves into the story of Anthony Capella and his connection to the Napalm Girl photo. Through exclusive interviews with Capella's family members, friends, and fellow journalists, the film attempts to uncover the truth behind the controversy.

The Film's Key Takeaways

1. Capella's Initial Claim: In 2005, Capella came forward claiming that he had taken the iconic photo while working as a freelancer for the AP.
2. Investigation and Denial: The AP investigated Capella's claim but ultimately denied it, stating that Ut was the photographer who took the image.
3. Capella's Family Members Speak Out: In recent years, some of Capella's family members have come forward to support his story, claiming that he had told them about taking the photo before it gained international attention.
4. The Film's Conclusion: While the film raises questions and sparks debate, its conclusion is ambiguous, leaving viewers to draw their own conclusions about who actually took the Napalm Girl photo.

Repercussions and Impact

"The Stringer" has sparked a renewed conversation about the ethics of war photography, the role of journalists in verifying facts, and the consequences of keeping secrets for too long. The film has also shed light on the complex personal life of Anthony Capella, whose story was previously unknown to many.

Netflix Release and Availability

"The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo" is now available to stream on Netflix, offering a thought-provoking look at one of the most iconic images in modern history. If you have a subscription, be sure to check it out and form your own opinion about who really took the Napalm Girl photo.

Conclusion

"The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo" is a powerful exploration of truth, identity, and the power of photography to shape our understanding of the world. With its thought-provoking narrative and exclusive interviews, this documentary film offers a unique perspective on one of the most infamous images in history.