The screening is part of Georgia Tech’s annual Global Media Festival, a film and discussion series that brings international stories into conversation with pressing social, cultural, and ethical questions. The 2026 theme, Sustaining Empathy in a Fractured World, approaches empathy not simply as an emotion, but as a practiced capacity — the ability to listen, imagine another’s reality, and remain engaged even when doing so is difficult.

The Sand Castle reflects this theme by portraying survival not as domination, but as care, restraint, and shared responsibility. As the family in the film navigates scarcity and isolation, the story raises questions about environmental fragility, human connection, and moral responsibility in times of crisis.

The 2026 Global Media Festival includes 11 events, featuring 10 international film screenings followed by conversations with directors, scholars, and guest speakers. This year also introduces an introductory directing workshop to provide students with hands-on experience in storytelling and filmmaking.

All screenings are free and open to the public. Each event concludes with national food offerings, creating space for continued informal discussion and community engagement.