Pakistan’s burgeoning animation industry has made history with The Glassworker, the country’s first animated feature film to qualify for consideration at the prestigious Academy Awards. Directed by Usman Riaz and produced by Mano Animation Studios, this groundbreaking project has secured eligibility in two categories for the 97th Academy Awards: Best Animated Feature and Best International Feature Film.
Historic Milestone for Pakistan
The Glassworker is a trailblazer for Pakistan’s cinematic landscape. The film’s inclusion in the Academy’s longlist is a testament to the country’s growing influence in global storytelling. Competing against 30 other films in the Animated Feature category and 84 entries in the International Feature Film category, this achievement marks a monumental step for the nascent animation industry in Pakistan.
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The film’s eligibility follows its submission by Pakistan’s Academy Selection Committee, which praised the project for its exceptional storytelling and artistry. This recognition places Pakistan on the global cinematic map, showcasing the country’s creative potential.
Story Behind The Glassworker
Set in a South Asian-inspired landscape, The Glassworker follows Vincent, a young apprentice in his father Tomas’ glass workshop. Their tranquil lives are disrupted by the arrival of a military colonel and his talented violinist daughter, Alliz. Against the backdrop of a looming war, the narrative delves into themes of love, family, and the complexities of growing up.
The film’s intricate hand-drawn animation—comprising 1,477 cuts and over 2,500 drawings—has drawn comparisons to the works of Studio Ghibli. The evocative score further enriches the storytelling, creating a deeply immersive cinematic experience that has resonated with audiences worldwide.
Competing Against Global Heavyweights
In the Best Animated Feature category, The Glassworker faces fierce competition from industry titans like Pixar’s Inside Out 2, the highest-grossing animated release of all time, and DreamWorks’ Kung Fu Panda 4. Other notable contenders include Despicable Me 4 and Japan’s Kensuke’s Kingdom.
The International Feature Film category also presents a diverse and competitive field. Among the 85 submissions are India’s Laapata Ladies, directed by Kiran Rao, and From Ground Zero, a Palestinian anthology exploring the Gaza conflict. Israel’s Come Closer adds to the varied narratives represented this year.
Decade of Passion and Perseverance
Usman Riaz, the visionary behind The Glassworker, has dedicated nearly a decade to bringing this story to life. Supported by a team of 250 local and international artists, Riaz described the project as a labor of love that aims to showcase Pakistan’s creative talent on a global stage.
“This selection is deeply humbling,” Riaz shared. “I hope the story resonates with audiences everywhere, demonstrating the immense creativity Pakistan has to offer.”
Road to the Oscars
The journey to an Oscar nomination is arduous. For the Animated Feature category, entries are rigorously evaluated by members of the Academy’s Animation Branch. In the International Feature Film category, all participating Academy members must meet strict viewing requirements before casting their votes.
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The Academy will announce the shortlists on December 17, 2024, narrowing the field ahead of the final nominations on January 23, 2025. The winners will be revealed during the Oscars ceremony on March 3, 2025.