Cannes, France – May 21, 2024 – Making its debut at the Cannes Film Festival, the Pakistan Crescent Collective presented an extraordinary panel discussion featuring the renowned team from Mano Animation Studios, the creators behind Pakistan’s inaugural hand-drawn animated feature, “The Glassworker.” This groundbreaking event offered an exclusive preview of the much-anticipated project, ahead of its premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival.
Esteemed filmmaker Mohammed Ali Naqvi, who chairs the Pakistani Academy Selection Committee, led the discussion. He navigated through the innovative techniques and obstacles faced during the making of “The Glassworker.” Insights from Director Usman Riaz and Producer Khizer Riaz provided a fascinating narrative on their journey to bring this pioneering film to life.
Set in a land reminiscent of Pakistan, “The Glassworker” tells a poignant story of a father-son duo running a glass workshop. Their lives are upended by the specter of war and the arrival of an army colonel and his musically talented daughter, Alliz. The film features an impressive voice cast, including Art Malik, Sacha Dhawan, Anjli Mohindra, and Tony Jayawardena.
Usman Riaz shared his excitement, saying, “Presenting our journey at Cannes is an incredible honor. The overwhelming support and affection for ‘The Glassworker’ is deeply moving.”
Producer Khizer Riaz, also the founder of Mano Animation Studios, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Pakistan Crescent Collective. “Being recognized and supported by the international film community at such a prestigious festival is a dream realized,” he said.
Mohammed Ali Naqvi underscored the importance of platforms like the Pakistan Crescent Collective in amplifying Pakistani voices. “Our films are breaking barriers, telling our stories amidst a world where narratives from the global south often face marginalization and Islamophobia. We’re committed to changing that. This year, we’re thrilled to present ‘The Glassworker’ by Usman Riaz and Mano Animation Studios, a young team inspired by Japan’s Studio Ghibli.”
Apoorva Bakshi, Executive Producer from Awedacious Originals, reflected on the power of collaboration in creating “The Glassworker.” “This film is a testament to the strength of collaboration and the pursuit of a shared dream,” she stated.
“The Glassworker,” a testament to passion and perseverance, is set for release in Pakistan on July 26 through Geo Films and Mandviwala Entertainment. International sales will be managed by Charades. The event received sponsorship from Zareen’s Restaurant.