Il Vetraio

This movie had been 10 years in the making and it largely pays off.

The setting is a blend of desi and European culture which is evident with the character names, clothing, food and more.

The art style is obviously inspired by Studio Ghibli but it is unique enough to have its own personality.

The animation during the war scenes are especially breathtaking as the lighting and colours during the explosions are particularly beautiful.

The voice acting is the weakest aspect (I watched it in English, but Urdu had the same issue) but I had expected it from the trailers, however it wasn't terrible.

Pretty good movie overall. Many elements that I liked, for example the animation was amazing, especially for something that is produced in Pakistan. Could clearly tell that they put a lot of effort into it, and influence of Ghibli films could be seen. They nailed the glass working part. The animation seemed to be the main focus of the movie. The voice acting was alright, I didn't like the voice actor voicing the female protagonist (I watched the English version, maybe Urdu was better). The story itself wasn't too original, but was alright, and basically just got the job done. At least they didn't try to force tear-jerker moments for no reason. Good, solid movie, which is altogether unexpected from Pakistani cinema, hopefully this is one of many actual quality movies that we release.

First, let me get this out the way, the movie is aesthetically a masterpiece. Would have never believed that such a beautiful, hand-drawn animation could come out of Pak. The Urdu voice actors were fantastic too, especially the person who voiced Vincent's Dad.

Beyond that I felt the film severely lacked in storyboarding, character development, and overall character arcs. It got tedious and boring at times in between the usual Ghibli tropes. They could have definitely perfected the script in the 10 years the film spent in development. But, in the end they drew stunning animation for a very weak story. Despite that, I was totally on-board with the pacifist message that formed the crux of the story.

Also, they market the film as made-in Pak, but the characters and setting look ostensibly western. I mean, I get it that they wanted to appeal to a global audience, but they could have incorporated more of the local culture apart from token mentions. After all, the film's core viewership and theatre-going base was to be in Pak.

Despite the weak story, I would commend the score of the film. It was hauntingly beautiful and executed masterfully within scenes.

In conclusion, despite it's obvious flaws, The Glassworker is a film to watch for art lovers & Ghibli fans. You might be bored by the story and characters, but the the visuals and music score will keep you there till the end.

P. S: I have heard that the English voiceover is not as good. I watched it in Urdu, so can't comment on that opinion. The Urdu version was quite well done.

BEFORE u get angry, read my review till last and think about it.

The glass worker is a nice movie, not gonna lie and i have been following it up for last 4-5 years. But i knew from the start, as this is Usman Riaz first movie the story will have problems and oh oh boy it had alot. The ending was confusing to say the least, as many of the plot of the movie was missing and the movie rapped it up pretty quickly. It also didnt felt "original as Usman Riaz was inspired by Ghibli, which actually made the film feel like "too much" inspired by Ghibli. I know its his first movie but if he had been original with it , it would have been better and also made it more natural and calming rather then rapping it up quickly. IF you actually wanna see what a "MASTER PIECE" looks like, (as people here are screaming that this movie is, although it isnt) Go watch HAYOA MIYAZAKI first film "Nausicaä The Valley of Wind". Or "the castle in the sky", then you will truly understand the art of animation and the beauty of a true master piece story.

The reviews here are totally wrong saying it is the "best movie ever", I have seen alot, i mean ALOT of animated movies and especially Japanese, as i like there 2D natural artwork. I am pretty choosy about my animated movies and this one was a easy 7/10. The main reason being that is, although the animation was beautiful and nice, but the story lacked alot and kinda felt amateurly written + not to forget the Urdu dubbing of the movie, which didnt had any natural feelings. I will highly recommend watching the movie in ENGLISH rather then URDU, because the original script of the movie is in English, due to this the Urdu one felt like a google translation lmao.

"The Glassworker," directed by Usman Riaz and produced by Mano Animation Studios, is an enchanting hand-drawn animated film that captivates the heart and soul. Set in a land reminiscent of Pakistan, this film tells a profound story of love, artistry, and the relentless shadows of war.

The voice performances are exceptional. The emotional resonance they deliver adds layers to the already rich narrative.

"The Glassworker" is not just a film; it is an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. It challenges the viewer to reflect on the importance of love, art, and individual thought in times of turmoil. Usman Riaz has crafted a timeless piece that stands as a tribute to the power of animation and storytelling.

Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates a beautifully crafted narrative and stunning animation. "The Glassworker" is a rare gem in today's cinematic landscape.