Pakistan First Hand-Drawn Animated Film The Glassworker gears up for its U.S. Theatrical Release
In a top-notch fulfillment for South Asian cinema, Pakistan very first hand-drawn animated function film, The Glassworker, is on the brink of a theatrical release in the United States. Bought with the assistance of Watermelon Pictures at some stage of the Cannes Film Festival, the film has already won over audiences with its artistry, emotional depth, and gripping storyline.
Usman Riaz The Visionary Behind the Frame
Guided by the multi-faceted Usman Riaz, The Glassworker is a labor of love brought to lives thru 2,500 man or woman hand-drawn storyboards spread across 1,477 cuts. Riaz, also the founder of animation house Mano Animation Studios, skillfully weaves a heart-wrenching tale that tests the vulnerability of art, love, and mankind in a war-torn world.
A Tale of Love in a World on Edge
Based in a fantastically brought-to-life fictional world, The Glassworker tracks the lives of Vincent, a younger and ambitious glassblower, and Alliz, a talented violinist. As they grow closer, they find themselves tested through the brutal realities of an impending war. The film elegantly teeters on emotional vulnerability as it matches it with stunning visuals, earning comparison to the timeless efforts of Japanese legend Hayao Miyazaki.
International Acclaim and Oscar Qualification
The Glassworker was released in Pakistan in July 2024 and quickly gained international recognition. Its innovative path and emotional storytelling led it to the distinction of being Pakistan professional entry to the 2025 Academy Awards. The film’s appeal across cultural and linguistic barriers underscores the universal power of storytelling through animation.
Watermelon Pictures Brings It to America
Watermelon Pictures, the distributor currently taking The Glassworker to American screens, showed great respect for the integrity and emotional heft of the film. The acquisition is a huge leap forward for Pakistani cinema and signs of emerging international hobby in genuine, homegrown animation.
A Triumph for South Asian Animation
With a diverse crew of 250 creatives from Pakistan and around the globe, The Glassworker is not just a film it’s a benchmark. Its release in the U.S. signals a step ahead second for South Asian animation, setting the stage for more regional voices to join the global stage.
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