Renowned filmmaker Oluwatosin Akingbulu’s unwavering belief in the power of storytelling to drive impactful change has led to the creation of a remarkable cinematic endeavor, “Sandcastles,” designed to ignite a movement of parental support and advocacy. With an unrelenting dedication to his vision, Akingbulu has partnered with an exceptional team to produce a captivating movie that encapsulates the essence of nurturing families and strengthening bonds.
As the Executive Producer of “Sandcastles,” Oluwatosin Akingbulu has meticulously crafted a compelling narrative that delves into the nuanced challenges young children face, shedding light on the pivotal role that playful parenting plays in their development. The film serves as a poignant call to action for decision-makers and parents alike, urging them to rally behind the cause of fostering a supportive environment for families.
Released in honor of Parenting Month this year, “Sandcastles” has already made a resounding impact, capturing the hearts of audiences in three countries through its thought-provoking screenings. The film is poised to extend its reach to additional countries and regions in the coming months, facilitating broader engagement with its powerful message.
A highlight of this inspiring journey is the film’s recent recognition at the prestigious London Director Awards, where “Sandcastles” earned an honorable mention in the esteemed Best Director – Short Fiction category. Furthermore, the film has garnered acclaim as a semi-finalist at the esteemed Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Fest, along with being designated an Official Selection at the esteemed Hollywood Shortsfest, with more accolades anticipated on the horizon.
The writer extends her heartfelt gratitude to the remarkable collaborators who have contributed their unwavering support and dedication to bring “Sandcastles” to life. He acknowledges the invaluable partnership with the UNICEF team and Rooftop crew, particularly Nicholas Ledner, for his steadfast commitment to the project’s vision. Co-producer Prince Gregorio and co-producer Juan Haro Simarro have been instrumental in elevating the film’s impact. At the same time, the remarkable contributions of the Collins brothers, Richard and Melissa, alongside the entire cast and crew, have been pivotal in realizing the film’s potential.
The global success of “Sandcastles” would not have been possible without the extraordinary efforts of Maria Fernandez Ruiz de Larrinaga and Taonga Kangwa in Zambia, and Maxime Le Lijour in Slovakia, whose dedication has amplified the film’s resonance. Special appreciation is extended to Benjamin Perks, Zeinab Hijazi (MSc, PsyD), and Emma Ferguson for their ongoing commitment to the project’s success.
The film’s journey has been supported by the invaluable contributions of senior management, the dedicated Mental Health team, and the collaborative efforts of the Parenting Working Group. Oluwatosin Akingbulu expresses sincere gratitude to The LEGO Foundation for their unwavering support and to every individual who has played a role in the triumph of “Sandcastles.”
“Sandcastles” continues to captivate hearts and minds, advocating for the transformative power of parental support and fostering empathy in families worldwide. While currently available for local screenings, the film’s online release is eagerly anticipated in the near future, inviting a broader audience to join the movement of meaningful change.