In this episode, we sit down with Yun Xie, writer and director of the gripping dystopian drama Under the Burning Sun, fresh off its screening at the 2025 Florida Film Festival.

Set in a sun-scorched future where abortion is outlawed, the film follows Mowanza, a survivor of sexual violence, as she embarks on a desperate road journey in search of bodily autonomy.

With echoes of Mad Max and rooted in Xie’s own reflections on her upbringing in China, Under the Burning Sun explores the cost of choice, survival, and freedom. We talk to Yun about the personal inspirations behind the film, the urgency of telling stories about reproductive rights in today’s world, and more.

Under the Burning Sun won the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature at Slamdance 2025, and is screening April 18 at 4:45 PM @ Regal Winter Park Village (Theater B).

Learn more at https://floridafilmfestival.com/films/