Under The Sun

This documentary follows a family in North Korea as they are coached and controlled by the ruling party to stage a propaganda film. The film uses the narrative of a young girl, Anya, who is preparing for her father's birthday and her eventual entry into the Korean Children's Union. However, the behind-the-scenes footage reveals the immense pressure and artificiality imposed by the state on the family and the filmmaking process.

Under The Sun was widely acclaimed by critics for its daring and unique approach to exposing the realities of life under an authoritarian regime. Reviewers praised its ability to reveal the cracks in the carefully constructed propaganda machine, highlighting the human cost of state control. The film's observational style and the stark contrast between the staged narrative and the behind-the-scenes reality were frequently lauded.

• A chilling and incisive look at totalitarian control and propaganda.
• Masterfully contrasts the staged reality with the manipulated truth.
• A remarkable feat of observational filmmaking under difficult circumstances.

Google audience: Google users found the film to be a deeply impactful and eye-opening experience, frequently praising its powerful message and the director's courage in capturing such a sensitive subject. Many highlighted the disturbing yet fascinating portrayal of state control over everyday life and personal narratives. Some viewers expressed a sense of unease and sadness regarding the depicted circumstances.

Screened at the Sundance Film Festival, Thessaloniki Documentary Festival (Audience Award), and Jerusalem Film Festival.

The film was shot and edited in secret, with the crew having to meticulously hide their equipment and footage from North Korean authorities throughout the entire production.