Spain is grappling with its worst flooding disaster in decades, and while we send out silent prayers to alleviate the misery and trauma of those impacted directly, some uplifting news comes your way. Cnemas in the region are also scheduled to release Pakistan’s animated film, The Glassworker, on November 22.
Spain is enduring its worst flooding disaster in decades, with at least 95 people dead and dozens more missing after huge rains swept the eastern province of Valencia and beyond. Torrential rain on Tuesday triggered flash floods which swept away bridges and buildings and forced people to climb onto roofs or cling to trees to survive. Amidst Spain fighting the aftermath of these devastating floods, the release of The Glassworker might provide some much-needed relief and a moment of artistic respite.
I’m excited to announce that El Artista del Cristal (The Glassworker) will be in cinemas across Spain on November 22nd. The film will be available in both Spanish and English.A big thank you to our producer Manuel Cristobal, SelectaVision, and the amazing team we worked with in Spain to bring this movie to life. See you at the cinema!
-Usman Riaz
Pakistan’s firsthand-drawn animated feature film, The Glassworker, is set to release in cinemas across Spain on November 22. The director, Usman Riaz, announced the exciting news in an Instagram post, stating that the movie will be screened in both English and Spanish. This marks a significant milestone in the global journey of The Glassworker, reflecting the growing recognition of Pakistani animation on the international stage.
A Historic Milestone: Pakistan’s Oscar Submission
Earlier this year, Usman Riaz made another groundbreaking announcement: The Glassworker is Pakistan’s official submission for the International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars. This is the first time an animated film has represented Pakistan at the Oscars. Directed by Usman Riaz and produced by Mano Animation Studios and the global production company Awedacious Originals, this film marks a historic moment for Pakistan’s animation industry.
The screenplay, penned by Moya O’Shea, and produced by Khizer Riaz and Manuel Cristóbal, was released on July 26, 2024. Now, The Glassworker is set to compete in the prestigious International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards.
International Acclaim and Festival Screenings
The Glassworker had its California premiere at Lightbox Expo 2024 on October 25th.
The Glassworker has already garnered significant international attention. A clip from the film was screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023 and the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France in 2022, receiving praise from industry insiders. 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 has further elevated the global recognition of The Glassworker.
The Story and 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,” Riaz shared.
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 first hand-drawn animated feature, it promises to inspire future generations of animators and storytellers.
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. The Glassworker stands as a symbol of the possibilities that lie ahead for Pakistani animation, heralding a new era of recognition and achievement.
