In a groundbreaking achievement for Pakistan’s burgeoning animation industry, Usman Riaz’s animated film *The Glassworker* has been selected as the country’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars. This marks a significant milestone, as it stands as Pakistan’s first-ever hand-drawn animated feature to be considered for such a prestigious award.
*The Glassworker* is a beautifully crafted piece that takes heavy inspiration from the intricate and emotionally compelling style of Japanese hand-drawn anime, reminiscent of the works of Studio Ghibli and legendary filmmakers like Hayao Miyazaki, Mamoru Hosoda, Satoshi Kon, and Makoto Shinkai. Riaz’s debut feature intertwines a poignant narrative with a visual style that is designed to captivate audiences, both young and old.
The storyline is set in a fantastical world and centers around the lives of two young characters, Vincent and Alliz. Vincent, a young glassblower, and Alliz, a talented violinist, form an unlikely friendship that is put to the test by the tumultuous circumstances of their differing backgrounds and the ominous shadow of war that looms over their lives. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and the intersection of art and conflict, illuminated through the young protagonists’ journeys.
Premiering at the esteemed Annecy International Animation Film Festival earlier this year, *The Glassworker* garnered significant attention and praise. Annecy is known to be a haven for animation enthusiasts and professionals, often serving as a launchpad for some of the world’s most innovative and heartwarming animated content. Following its international debut, the film had its theatrical run in Pakistan in July, where it continued to receive acclaim for its storytelling and artistic execution.
Usman Riaz, in an exclusive interview with The Hindu, revealed the deeply personal inspirations behind the creation of *The Glassworker*.
. “I have always been enchanted by the mastery of Studio Ghibli, the magical realism of Hayao Miyazaki, the emotional depth of Mamoru Hosoda, the psychological complexity of Satoshi Kon, and the breathtaking visuals of Makoto Shinkai,” Riaz stated. He elaborated on how these influences shaped his vision and the meticulous process of bringing *The Glassworker* to life.
This move to submit *The Glassworker* for the Oscars is a significant step for the Pakistani film industry, which is gradually making its mark on the global stage. The film’s submission is not just a win for Riaz and his team but also a testament to the potential of Pakistani cinema to craft narratives that resonate universally while remaining rooted in distinct cultural contexts.
Meanwhile, in neighboring India, the competition is equally fierce. India has chosen Kiran Rao’s satirical feminist comedy *Laapataa Ladies* as its contender for the Best International Feature Film category. The film, which tackles significant themes with a blend of humor and social commentary, will be going head-to-head with *The Glassworker* among other international entries. It will be interesting to see how both films are received by the Academy’s voters, who are tasked with shortlisting the nominees in December.
The final list of nominees for the Best International Feature Film category will be highly anticipated, as it always brings together a diverse array of voices and storytelling styles from across the globe. For *The Glassworker*, being shortlisted or even nominated would be a historic achievement for Pakistan, potentially opening doors for more animated features and innovative storytelling by Pakistani filmmakers on the world stage.
Published – September 28, 2024, 12:28 pm IST
Pakistan
