Ever since the The Glassworker was announced, there had been so much conversation and anticipation around it. A lot of anime/Studio Ghibli fans had been waiting for this movie. It’s safe to say Usman Riaz’s directorial is an absolute visual stunner. It stands as a testament to the incredible talent and passion of the Pakistani animation industry.
The film’s landscapes are breathtaking, capturing the essence of Pakistan’s natural beauty with a level of detail that rivals even the most acclaimed studios. Each frame is a work of art, and I found myself mesmerized by the intricate designs and vibrant colors. As someone who grew up watching Hayao Miyazaki and Makoto Shinkai movies, The Glassworker seemed a combination of all. But that doesn’t mean it lacked originality.
At many points, I felt I was watching either Your Name or Grave of the Fireflies. There were a few instances where the animation felt slightly off, particularly in the characters’ mouth movements during dialogue. The lip-syncing occasionally appeared unnatural, which detracted somewhat from the overall animation.
While the visuals are undoubtedly the film’s strongest point, the story is where it falters slightly. It’s a simple romance tale with a tragic twist, but the plot takes an unexpected turn that feels somewhat forced. It’s as if the filmmakers were trying too hard to subvert expectations, resulting in a somewhat confusing ending. However, I understand that this is Mano Animation Studios first feature film, and I have high hopes for their future projects.
The voice acting is decent, but there’s room for improvement. The dialogue lacked depth, preventing a deeper emotional connection with the characters. However, it doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the film.
I must take a moment to commend the film’s musical score, composed by Carmine DiFlorio and Riaz. The soundtrack is a character in itself, increasing the emotional depth of every scene. There’s a small part where Alliz performs the violin is a particular highlight, a significant moment made even more heart-wrenching by the beautiful melody.
Overall, The Glassworker is a remarkable achievement for Pakistani cinema. It’s a film that showcases the immense potential of the country’s animation industry. While the story may not be groundbreaking, the sheer beauty of the visuals is enough to make it a memorable experience.
I think its charm could unfold more fully in a cozy home environment. There’s a potential for the story to resonate more deeply with audiences in a quieter, more intimate setting, allowing them to connect with the characters and their journey on a personal level.
Ratings:
- Animation: 9/10
- Voice Acting: 8/10
- Storyline: 7/10
- SFX/Music: 9.5/10
- Overall: 8.5/10
