Pakistan’s first-ever 2D hand-drawn film, ‘The Glassworker,’ has been announced as the country’s official entry for the 97th Academy Awards by its director Usman Riaz on Instagram this Thursday.
Currently screening in theaters across Pakistan, the film will be submitted in the International Feature Film category.
“We are thrilled to share that The Glassworker has been selected as Pakistan’s submission for the International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars. This is the first time a 2D hand-drawn animated film from Pakistan has received this prestigious recognition,” Riaz wrote on Instagram. He added, “The Glassworker represents ten years of dedication and perseverance. I am truly honored by this selection and hope that this story resonates with audiences everywhere, showcasing the talent and creativity that Pakistan has to offer.”
The animated feature follows the journey of a young glassblower as he navigates love and life amidst the turmoil of war in his homeland.
A clip of the film was showcased at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023 and the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France in 2022.
The screenplay was penned by Moya O’Shea, with Khizer Riaz and Manuel Cristóbal as producers.
Last year, Pakistan’s official submission for the 96th Academy Awards, ‘In Flames,’ did not make it to the shortlist.
