If there was one photograph that captured the horrific nature of the Vietnam War it was that of a nine-year-old girl running naked down a road, screaming in agony from napalm burns that had eaten into her flesh. Sadly, the picture that moved millions all over the world to tears, and that played a major role in the success of the anti-Vietnam War movement, ultimately made Kim Phuc a symbolic figure who was used for many years by the Vietnamese Government.
In telling Kim's story, Shelley Saywell makes poignant use of news footage of that time, when the dreadfully wounded little girl ran to journalists at the scene for help, help that was extended heroically. She has also filmed the doctors and journalists who 25 years ago ensured Kim's survival.
Saywell's film crew accompanies Kim Phuc on a remarkable odyssey to Washington's Vietnam Memorial wall, as part of the U.S. Veterans Day ceremonies. There, dignitaries struggled to hold back tears as Kim, still in their minds the little girl a whole world wanted to hold and make better, made it clear that her mission was one of forgiveness and a wider healing.
Kim's Story culminates in an astonishing, unanticipated meeting between Kim and the American commander who admits to having ordered the napalm strike that almost killed her. For the first time in 25 years he discloses, to her and to viewers, his role in the events of that day.
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