Ogochukwu Ekezie looks to make a notable impact in Nollywood with her new venture, Red Sand Studios.
After a successful career in marketing, where she crafted compelling narratives for leading brands, Ekezie has turned her focus to film with the launch of Red Sand Studios. To mark this exciting new chapter, she released the short film ‘Wèrè,’ which tackles mental health challenges in Lagos, Nigeria.
The film highlights the struggles of those often overlooked by society, aiming to shed light on mental illness and prompt viewers to rethink their perceptions.
Ekezie’s transition into filmmaking reflects her long-held passion for storytelling. Her award-winning ad campaigns showcased her talent for engaging audiences and delivering results, but her dream of working in film has been a driving force for over two decades.
In an exclusive interview with Nollywire, Ekezie shared her enthusiasm for Red Sand Studios and the inspiration behind it. “Launching Red Sand Studios with ‘Wèrè’ was both a personal and strategic decision,” she revealed. “When I encountered Dolapo Marinho’s short story, it resonated deeply with me. I felt a strong urge to bring it to the screen. We hope that ‘Wèrè’ will ignite discussions and foster empathy, allowing viewers to see the humanity in those who are often misunderstood.”
Ekezie’s vision for Red Sand Studios includes a commitment to high standards of professionalism and storytelling. “Our aim is to enhance the Nollywood landscape by focussing on quality and emotional depth,” she said. “We want our films to captivate audiences visually and emotionally.”
Collaboration is a key element of this vision. “Working with individuals who share our values and dedication is crucial,” Ekezie noted. “We seek talent with both technical skill and a deep understanding of the stories we want to tell.”
Addressing social issues through film is a core mission for Red Sand Studios. ‘Wèrè’ is a prime example of this commitment. “In our society, misconceptions about mental illness are common,” Ekezie observed. “Our film challenges these assumptions and encourages viewers to think more deeply about the topic.” Ekezie sees film as a powerful medium for sparking meaningful conversations and increasing understanding. “Our goal extends beyond entertainment; we aim to provoke significant dialogue and create a lasting cultural impact,” she said.
As Ogochukwu Ekezie embarks on this new venture with Red Sand Studios, she brings a wealth of experience, a passion for storytelling, and a strong commitment to excellence. Her move from the corporate world to filmmaking underscores her dedication and vision. With ‘Wèrè’ as its inaugural project, Red Sand Studios is poised to make a significant mark on Nollywood and beyond.
