Pakistan’s first 2D hand-drawn animated film, The Glassworker (2024), has been selected as the country’s official submission for the 2025 Academy Awards.
Directed by Usman Riaz, the film will compete in the prestigious International Feature Film category at the 97th Oscar ceremony.
Usman announced the exciting news on Instagram. He expressed his gratitude for the selection.
The filmmaker also highlighted the significance of this milestone for Pakistani cinema.
He said: “We are proud to announce that The Glassworker has been selected as Pakistan’s submission for the International Feature Film category at the 2025 Oscars.
“This marks the first time a 2D hand-drawn animated film from Pakistan has been chosen for this prestigious honour.”
Netizens reacted positively to the news.
One user said: “Great achievement – I hope this serves as a catalyst to revive the Pakistani film industry as a whole.”
Another added: “I hope this movie gets an Oscar for the best ending!
“I’m happy that our country has made this level of animation.”
The Pakistani Academy Selection Committee, stated:
“Usman and Mano’s work has demonstrated exceptional storytelling and artistry while breaking new ground for animation in Pakistan.
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This achievement will be remembered in our cinematic history.”
Currently screening in theatres across Pakistan, The Glassworker is the first film of its kind from the country.
The film narrated the story of a young glassblower who navigates love and life against the backdrop of war and political turmoil.
The Glassworker has already captured international attention, having been screened at major film festivals, including Cannes in 2023.
