November 13, 2024 | Film, General, News,

ArtsEmerson Co-Presents The Glassworker at the Bright Family Screening Room

ArtsEmerson is proud to partner with the Boston Asian American Film Festival to present The Glassworker, a film from Usman Riaz’ Mano Animation Studios, Pakistan’s first hand-drawn animation studio. With its breathtaking hand-drawn animation and timeless themes, The Glassworker is a remarkable testament to the power of storytelling and artistic expression. 

Set in the looming shadow of an impending war, The Glassworker tells the story of Vincent, a young artisan, and his father Tomas, who runs the finest glassblowing workshop in the country. Their peaceful existence is tested when an army colonel and his talented violinist daughter, Alliz, arrive in town. As a love connection blossoms between Vincent and Alliz, the pair must navigate the challenges imposed by their fathers’ conflicting views in a time when patriotism and social hierarchy overshadow their love and freedom.

Inspired by the works of Studio Ghibli, this groundbreaking film has captivated audiences at multiple film festivals such as the Cannes Film Festival and the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, earning critical acclaim for its stunning artistry and heartfelt storytelling. The Glassworker is also Pakistan’s official submission for the 2025 Oscars.

Named the youngest ever TED Senior fellow at the age of 22, the talented multi-instrumentalist Riaz founded Mano Animation Studios in 2014 while pursuing a degree from Berklee College of Music, where he would graduate from in 2017. Since then, Riaz and the team at Mano Animation Studios have worked on several projects, including Vale­mon: The Polar Bear King, one of Scandinavia’s most beloved folk tales transformed into a stunning 2D film, and EMI Pakistan, the country’s largest and most popular music company. Watch Riaz’ Ted Talk here.

Join us for this cinematic experience on November 15th at 6:00 p.m. at the Bright Family Screening Room in the Paramount Center. After the screening, join us for a Q&A session with The Glassworker Art Director, Associate Producer and Emerson alum Mariam Paracha. To learn more about the screening and secure your tickets here.