The Glassworker, a pioneering animated film made by Geo Films in partnership with Mano Animation Studios, has been officially picked as Pakistan’s International Feature Film Oscar entry for 2025.
This is a historic feat for Pakistani cinema, as the country’s first hand-drawn animated picture with an anti-war story makes its way to the coveted Academy Awards.
An inspirational rede for Pakistani Animation
The Glassworker, a groundbreaking film in the cinema of Pakistan, has been directed by Usman Riaz. It has been reported that the making of the film encapsulated ten years of hard work and effort of Riaz and his team from Mano Animation Studios. Speaking to Geo. tv, Riaz expressed his excitement about this recognition.
“I’m privileged that we will be competing with some of the best films out there; i am glad to display our worth.”
While this accomplishment is a beacon of hope for Pakistan’s shrinking cinema industry, Riaz humbly added: ”I do not exactly know how this would turn out for Pakistani cinema, but what I do know is that you will see me giving my 100 per cent and moving forward.“
Passion and Perseverance
A decade-long journey The Glassworker is a cinematic tribute to love and patience. Riaz mentioned that this recognition has a very special meaning to him and to all the team which worked on the project.
He further mentioned, “We will continue to experiment and innovate this medium to tell new kinds of stories and experiences”. Taking to Instagram, Riaz proudly announced the news, stating: Due to The Glassworker, we are honoured to announce it as Pakistan’s pick for the best international Feature Film in the Oscars 2025.
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This is the first-ever recognition of a 2D hand-drawn animated film from Pakistan on this honour list.
The Pakistani Academy Selection Committee used the film’s storyline and artistic supervision statements, appreciating its role in opening up new horizons for animation in Pakistan.
An inspirational rede for Pakistani Animation The Glassworker a groundbreaking film in the cinema of Pakistan, has been directed by Usman Riaz. It has been reported that the making of the film captured ten years of hard work and effort by Riaz and his team from Mano Animation Studios. Speaking to Geo.TV, Riaz expressed his excitement about this recognition.
“I’m privileged that we will be competing with some of the best films out there, i am glad to display our worth.”
While this accomplishment is a beacon of hope for Pakistan’s shrinking cinema industry, Riaz humbly added:
”I do not exactly know how this would turn out for Pakistani cinema, but what I do know is that you will see me giving my 100 per cent and moving forward.“
The Story of The Glassworker
The Glassworker on its part looks into an inspiring tale of Vincent and his father Tomas who own a production of fine glass. The role of the film heavily rests of the fact that the two protagonists are focused on living a quiet life but when war starts looming, this endeavor is threatened.
Critics and International Perspectives
The Glassworker has received a lot of praise for the narrative, scenes, music and hand-drawn animation. This is because it has deservedly been acclaimed for its combining of an interesting plot with stunning and artistic graphics.
Audiences and film enthusiasts have showered their appreciation for this film regarding its execution and for adding a new sensibility to the cinema of Pakistan.
Usman Riaz reflected on this recognition with deep humility, saying: “Words cannot express how much this recognition means to me (and to everyone at Mano Animation Studios), not only me but the whole team behind the project.” He added.
When it comes to The Glassworker, this is the outcome of a long year of devotion and hard work. I am truly honoured to be selected and would like this story to reach the people of the world and introduce them to the artistry and ideas Pakistan has to offer.
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