Pakistan selects ‘The Glassworker’ as its official 2025 Oscars submission

In an interesting update, Pakistan’s Academy Selection Committee has shortlisted animated flick 'The Glassworker' as its official Oscars submission for next year.

This year’s selection committee includes filmmakers like Saqib Malik, Fizza Ali Meerza, Abid Aziz Merchant, Kanwal Khoosat and actors such as Humayun Saeed, Vasay Chaudhry, Mohib Mirza, and Grammy-winning artist Arooj Aftab.

The Glassworker impressed the Pakistani Academy Selection Committee the most, which is why it topped their list.

In a statement, the PASC said,"Usman and Mano’s work has demonstrated exceptional storytelling and artistry while breaking new ground for animation in Pakistan. This achievement will be remembered in our cinematic history."

This is the first time an animated film from Pakistan has been submitted to the Oscars, making 'The Glassworker' a groundbreaking selection. While 'The Glassworker' is Pakistan's submission, it must still impress the jury to make it to the 2025 Oscars shortlist.

The jury will determine whether the film makes it to the shortlist, which will be announced just before the ceremony. Director Usman Riaz was visibly elated by the historic submission, and took to Instagram, thanking those who were part of his journey:

“The Glassworker represents a decade of passion and perseverance. I am deeply humbled by the selection and hope this story resonates with audiences everywhere, showcasing the talent and creativity Pakistan has to offer.”

The Glassworker was released in Pakistan in English and Urdu earlier this year. The Mano Animation Studios Production was based on an original story by Usman Riaz, who also directed the film.

Moya O’Shea assisted him in the screenplay whereas Carmine DiFlorio and Usman Riaz collaborated on the majestic background score. Khizer Riaz and Manuel Cristobal were the producers behind the film whereas Azhar Hameed, Art Malik, Ameed Riaz, and Apoorva Bakshi were the Executive Producers.

The film revolves around a young boy Vincent who falls in love with Alliz, but their love story is cut short because of their backgrounds. The film’s success is mainly due to the fact that it presents a universal story that resonates with audiences across the world.

It is this relatability factor that might help the film at the Academy Awards next year, where it will represent Pakistan, with hopes of breaking the country's Oscars drought.