The Glassworker: Pakistan's first hand-drawn animated film

Khaleej Times

24-03-2025

Usman Riaz, a young and dynamic artist, has turned his dream into reality by creating The Glassworker, Pakistan's first-ever hand-drawn animated film. A decade in the making, the film is a groundbreaking achievement, earning Pakistan's nomination for the Oscars and setting a new standard for animation in the country.
A haunting and compelling story, The Glassworker captivates audiences with its breathtaking visuals and thought-provoking narrative. Every frame, meticulously hand-drawn, breathes life into the characters, pulling viewers into an emotionally rich experience. The film's exquisite cinematography, coupled with a deeply moving script, showcases the dedication and skill poured into its creation.
A Journey of Passion and Perseverance
From an early age, Riaz displayed an innate talent for drawing and music. At just 21, he was invited to the TED conference in Edinburgh as the youngest participant, later earning a scholarship at Berklee College of Music. Despite opportunities abroad, Riaz returned to Pakistan, determined to pursue his passion for animation and storytelling.
'There were many challenges as Pakistan is still raw when it comes to film production. Though recent hits like Maula Jatt have been produced, the industry still lacks financial support, technical expertise, and production skills. The government needs to step in to help the industry grow.'
Undeterred by these obstacles, Riaz built Mano Animation Studios, bringing together like-minded artists who believed in his vision. Key collaborators, including Maryam Paracha and Khizer Riaz, stood by him, sharing his passion despite skepticism from many in the industry.
A Decade of Hard Work
To refine his animation techniques, Riaz travelled to Japan, immersing himself in the art of hand-drawn animation. Once Mano Animation Studios was established, the real work began — relentless hours of drawing, refining, and perfecting each frame. Over time, talented artists from Japan, Thailand, Korea, and Spain joined his ambitious project, adding a global touch to the film.
The film's carefully crafted dialogues, soul-stirring music, and beautifully detailed scenes came together after ten years of dedication and passion. The final product is not just a movie — it's a work of art.
'No one has ever attempted a film like The Glassworker in Pakistan. A fully hand-drawn feature film is a rarity, and I have poured my heart and soul into it for almost a decade.'
A New Era for Pakistani Animation
Beyond its artistic brilliance, The Glassworker carries a powerful message: 'Bloom wherever you are planted.' This philosophy reflects Riaz's own journey - overcoming challenges, defying expectations, and creating something truly
extraordinary.
With The Glassworker, Pakistan has taken its first step into the world of hand-drawn animation. The film's international recognition proves that, with the right support and investment, the country has the potential to thrive in the animation industry. Usman's journey is a testament to perseverance and artistic passion, inspiring a new generation of Pakistani filmmakers to dream big and push creative boundaries.