Director Yun Xie’s Under the Burning Sun Makes Powerful World Premiere at Slamdance Film Festival 2025
LAPost/Los Angeles, CA (Feb. 27, 2025) — The highly anticipated narrative feature “Under the Burning Sun,” produced and presented by Narval Films, made its world premiere on February 22 at the Slamdance Film Festival in Hollywood, with a second screening on February 24. Both screenings were completely sold out, drawing an enthusiastic crowd and receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from the audience. The film was honored with the prestigious Audience Award, further solidifying its success and resonance with viewers.
From left: Producer of Under the Burning Sun，Co Founder of Narval Films： Aaron Linjun Yu； Founder of Slamdance Film Festival ： Paul Rachman； Writer/Director of Under the Burning Sun: Yun Xie;Producer of Under the Burning Sun，Co Founder of Narval Films：Jera Wang
“Under the Burning Sun” is a bold and visually captivating drama infused with elements of fantasy and LGBTQ+ themes. Directed by the talented Chinese filmmaker Yun Xie, the film was brought to life in Los Angeles by Narval Films, with producers Aaron Linjun Yu and Jera Wang at the helm. The 75-minute feature stars Stephanie Pardi and Stevie Kincheloe, who delivered powerful, emotionally charged performances that resonated deeply with the audience.
（Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost）
The film’s logline sets the stage for its gripping narrative: In an anti-abortion barren realm, Mowanza faces relentless obstacles while seeking to terminate an unwanted pregnancy. Determined to reclaim her autonomy, she embarks on a harrowing journey to Iropus, a neighboring nation with more lenient abortion laws.
（Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost）
The world premiere at the well-renowned LA Times Theater@Quixote was a resounding success, with both screenings packed to capacity. Audience members were visibly moved, with many staying behind after the credits rolled to engage in a spirited Q&A session with Yun Xie and the film’s cast and crew. The raw intensity of the story, combined with the film’s striking visuals and emotionally resonant performances, sparked heartfelt discussions about bodily autonomy, freedom of choice, and the complex realities of womanhood.
From Left: Stevie Kincheloe, Yun Xie, Stephanie Pardi
（Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost）
Director Yun Xie shared the deeply personal inspiration behind “Under the Burning Sun,” revealing that the film stemmed from a poignant memory with her mother, who once asked, “Am I still a woman?” after undergoing a hysterectomy. This question lingered in Yun’s mind for years, ultimately shaping the core of Mowanza’s journey — a story not about easy answers, but about the painful and unresolved struggles many women face.
（Photo by: Richard Ren/LAPost）
Narval Films’ unwavering support and commitment to telling bold, thought-provoking stories like “Under the Burning Sun” highlight their dedication to pushing the boundaries of independent cinema. The film’s success at Slamdance is only the beginning, as it is also set to screen at the upcoming Florida Film Festival.
With standing ovations, sold-out screenings, and powerful storytelling, “Under the Burning Sun” has firmly established itself as a must-see indie gem — a testament to the creative vision of Yun Xie and the exceptional work of Narval Films.
(By: Richard Ren/LAPost)
