In a groundbreaking achievement, The Glassworker has officially become Pakistan’s first animated film to be submitted for the 2024 Academy Awards. Directed by Usman Riaz, the film is Pakistan’s entry in the International Feature Film category, marking a historic moment for the country’s animation industry.
“This is a significant milestone as The Glassworker is Pakistan’s first 2D hand-drawn animated feature and the first animated film submitted for the Oscars,” said Mohammed Ali Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Academy Selection Committee. He praised the film’s exceptional storytelling and artistry, saying it sets a new standard for animation in Pakistan.
Usman Riaz, the film’s writer and director, expressed his gratitude, calling the film a “labor of love.” He shared, “This film reflects a decade of hard work and passion. It’s my tribute to cinema, and I hope it resonates with audiences worldwide, showcasing Pakistan’s talent and creativity.”
The Glassworker, produced by Riaz’s Mano Animation Studios, is set in a war-torn country. The story follows a young glassworker, Vincent Oliver, and violin prodigy Alliz Amano as they navigate their personal dreams and relationships amid the chaos of war. The film explores themes of love, artistry, and human resilience.
Released in Pakistan on July 26, the film features a screenplay by Moya O’Shea, music by Carmine DiFlorio and Usman Riaz, and was produced by Khizer Riaz and Manuel Cristobal. The selection committee for this year’s submission included notable figures such as filmmaker Saqib Malik, actors Humayun Saeed and Mohib Mirza, and Grammy-winning artist Arooj Aftab.
With this submission, The Glassworker not only highlights Pakistan’s growing animation industry but also aims to open new doors for future filmmakers and animators.