One and many were ecstatic to hear of the news of an anime emerging from one of the most unexpectant countries, Pakistan. The Glassworker, directed by Usman Riaz and Mariam Riaz Paracha is Pakistan’s first hand-drawn feature film. It’s by Mano Animation Studio where it was released in Pakistan on 26 of July.
The movie gained great success and recognition as it achieved Rs 30 million (Pakistani currency) in just a few days. All of Pakistan and a large number of people outside of Pakistan were eagerly awaiting for its arrival.
The Glassworker was heavily influenced by Ghibli studios and their artstyle but incorporated a heavy amount of cultural references within that shared an aspect of Pakistani culture. Even through all the discourage and skeptical concerns Usman Riaz worked hard with his crew over the course of 10 years and managed to finish the 93 minute movie for the world to see. It has been dubbed in 2 languages, Urdu and English.
Storyline
The Glassmaker takes place near a seaside where Vincent, a young glassworker who has to take a brave stand in his business as war breaks out in his land, fights for his and others freedom. With the encouragement from his pacifist father he continues his passions and reconnects with his estranged childhood friend Alliz, who he also held feelings for.
The film holds a lot of spiritual and cultural references such as Djinns, fire spirits that hold a special place in the plot.
Recommendations
To any anime fans who love a light-hearted and emotional movie that's simply a work of art, The Glassworker is the perfect film for you. It’s available on Hulu and Prime Video and watching it would be a great support to develop future projects in Pakistan, just like this.
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