“The Glassworker” has become Pakistan’s first animated feature to enter the Oscar race! Moreover, Critics and audiences praised the film for its stunning animation, compelling story, and beautiful score. It tells the story of a young glassworker who falls in love with a talented violinist, set against a war-torn country.
Pakistan’s animation industry has reached a historic milestone as The Glassworker, directed by Usman Riaz, secures a place on the longlist for the 97th Academy Awards. Mano Animation Studios produces this hand-drawn animated feature. Moreover, it is competing in two categories: Best Animated Feature and Best International Feature Film.
This marks Pakistan’s first animated film to qualify for Oscars consideration, a proud moment for the country’s budding animation industry. The Glassworker joins 31 contenders for Best Animated Feature, including global hits like Pixar’s Inside Out 2 and DreamWorks’ Kung Fu Panda 4. It also competes with 85 films in the International Feature Film category. It also shares space with notable entries like Despicable Me 4, Japan’s Kensuke’s Kingdom, India’s Laapata Ladies, and Palestine’s From Ground Zero.
The film tells the heartfelt story of Vincent, a young glass artisan, and Alliz, a violinist and the daughter of one of Vincent’s clients. Their relationship faces tests from the challenges of war and the complexities of growing up, set against South Asian-inspired landscapes. Moreover, the film’s hand-drawn animation and emotional storytelling have received widespread praise, making it a standout contender.
Pakistani Cinema Is Thriving
Released in July 2024, The Glassworker was brought to life by a team of 250 national and international artists, completing over 2,500 hand-drawn frames. The film is the product of over a decade of dedication, which Riaz describes as fueled by “passion and perseverance.”
The Academy will announce its final shortlists on December 17, 2024, followed by nominations on January 23, 2025. Whether it wins or not, The Glassworker has already set a precedent for Pakistan’s film industry, showcasing its creative potential on the global stage.
Riaz described his effort as a result of “a decade of passion and perseverance”. He said “I am deeply humbled by the selection and hope this story resonates with audiences everywhere, showcasing the talent and creativity Pakistan has to offer,” he added.
