Pakistan’s animation industry just took a giant leap forward—Pakistani Animated Film The Glassworker is now heading to U.S. theatres, marking a groundbreaking achievement for the nation’s creative arts. Distributed in the U.S. by Watermelon Pictures, the film’s international journey was sealed at the prestigious Cannes Film Market. The distribution deal was finalized by Hamza Ali (Watermelon Pictures) and Hélène Espeisse (Charades), a move that signals growing global interest in South Asian animated storytelling.
This milestone is more than just a film release—it’s a proud moment for Pakistan’s animation industry and a powerful showcase of what local talent can achieve on the world stage.
A Beautiful Tale with Studio Ghibli Inspiration
The Glassworker is Pakistan’s first-ever hand-drawn 2D animated feature, deeply inspired by the whimsical, emotionally rich storytelling of Japan’s iconic Studio Ghibli. But while it pays homage to Ghibli’s artistic style, the story is distinctly Pakistani in its themes and emotional core.
The film centers around a father-son duo, Vincent and Tomas, who run the finest glass workshop in a fictionalized South Asian country. Their peaceful lives are turned upside down by an approaching war, bringing with it an army colonel and his musically gifted daughter, Alliz. As tensions rise, relationships are tested, and art becomes a form of resistance and expression.
What makes this tale particularly special is its universal resonance. It’s about family, love, resilience, and the beauty of craftsmanship—all told through breathtaking visuals that blend South Asian heritage with classical animation aesthetics.
Usman Riaz: A Visionary Behind Pakistan’s Animation Revolution
Usman Riaz, the director and creative force behind The Glassworker, makes his feature film debut with this project. Already celebrated for his work as a musician and animator, Riaz is also the founder of Mano Animation Studios, based in Karachi. The studio, co-founded by Mariam Paracha and led by CEO Khizer Riaz, was established specifically to bring this ambitious dream to life.
Riaz’s passion and vision have propelled the project from a local idea to an international phenomenon. His dedication to traditional hand-drawn animation methods sets The Glassworker apart in an era dominated by CGI, giving it a timeless, artisanal quality that viewers worldwide are bound to appreciate.
Recognition and Global Applause
Before making its way to U.S. screens, The Glassworker had already been making waves internationally. The film premiered at the 2024 Annecy International Animation Film Festival, a major global platform for animated works. Notably, it was also Pakistan’s official submission for the 97th Academy Awards in both the Best International Feature and Best Animated Feature categories.
This recognition reflects not just the artistic merit of the film, but also the growing stature of Pakistani cinema on the global stage.
Stellar Voice Cast and Musical Brilliance
The English-language voice cast includes renowned names such as Art Malik, Sacha Dhawan, Anjli Mohindra, Tony Jayawardena, Teresa Gallagher, Maya Soraya, Sham Ali, and Mina Anwar. Each voice actor brings authenticity and emotional depth to the characters, making the story even more compelling for global audiences.
The film’s score, echoing both Western classical and South Asian musical traditions, further enhances the emotional journey, tying together visuals and narrative with auditory elegance.
Why This Matters for Pakistan’s Creative Future
Pakistani Animated Film The Glassworker is more than just a film—it’s a cultural landmark. It showcases the immense creative potential within Pakistan and signals to the world that the country is ready to contribute compelling, high-quality storytelling to global cinema.
As it makes its way into U.S. theatres, this film carries with it the dreams of countless South Asian artists, animators, and storytellers who now have a precedent for international success.
Final Thoughts
The release of Pakistani Animated Film The Glassworker in the U.S. is not just a moment of pride—it’s a call to celebrate and support homegrown talent that dares to dream big. With its poignant story, handcrafted visuals, and emotional depth, this film is poised to win hearts across continents.