Usman Riaz’s “The Glassworker” sets a historic milestone as Pakistan’s first animated feature submitted for the Oscars in 2025.
In a groundbreaking achievement for Pakistani cinema, the Oscars 2025 have officially selected “The Glassworker,” the country’s first 2D hand-drawn animated film. Usman Riaz directed the film, with Mano Animation Studios and global production company Awedacious Originals producing it. This film marks a historic milestone for Pakistan’s animation industry. Moya O’Shea penned the screenplay, and Khizer Riaz and Manuel Cristóbal produced it. Released on July 26, 2024, “The Glassworker” competes in the prestigious International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.
Usman Riaz & Other Achievements Of ‘The Glassworker’
Usman Riaz, the creative force behind “The Glassworker,” took to Instagram to share the exciting news, posting a heartfelt message alongside the film’s poster. “The Glassworker Selected as Pakistan’s Official Submission for the 2025 Oscars,” Riaz wrote. “We are proud to announce that The Glassworker has been selected as Pakistan’s submission for the International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars. This marks the first time a 2D hand-drawn animated film from Pakistan has been chosen for this prestigious honor.”
The film has already garnered significant international attention. The Cannes Film Festival screened a clip in 2023, and the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France did so in 2022, receiving praise from industry insiders. Moreover, speaking about the Cannes screening, Riaz expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent Pakistan’s emerging animation talent on such a prestigious platform. This exposure further elevates the global recognition of The Glassworker.
The Story & Inspiration Behind ‘The Glassworker’
Set against a backdrop of war and political turmoil, “The Glassworker” follows the journey of a young glassblower navigating through love and life. The narrative is a poignant exploration of personal and societal struggles, with themes that resonate universally. Usman Riaz described the project as a decade-long labor of passion and perseverance. “The Glassworker represents a decade of passion and perseverance. 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.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the film, Riaz told Variety, “The Glassworker offers a glimpse into growing up in Pakistan, from the local legends to the food, clothing, and colonial architecture depicted in the film.” While deeply rooted in Pakistan’s heritage, the film presents a universal story that transcends cultural boundaries.
A New Era For Pakistani Animation
“The Glassworker” is not just a film; it is a testament to the creative potential and resilience of Pakistan’s animation industry. The film’s release and subsequent Oscar submission highlight a significant leap forward for Pakistani animated storytelling on the global stage. As the country’s firsthand-drawn animated feature, it promises to inspire future generations of animators and storytellers. Thus, the film sets out to make waves at the Oscars and beyond with its compelling themes and stunning visuals, showcasing Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and the burgeoning talent within its creative community.
Sources: Variety, Dawn, tribune
