STORYLINE: From Mano Animation Studios and director Usman Riaz comes ‘The Glassworker’, a hand drawn animated feature film set in a location loosely inspired by Pakistan, A young Vincent and his father Tomas run the finest glass workshop in the country and find their lives upended by an impending war in which they want no part. The arrival in their town of an army colonel and his young, talented, violinist daughter, Alliz, shakes their reality and tests the relationship between father and son. The love that develops between Vincent and Alliz is challenged constantly by the differing views of their fathers. It is a time when patriotism and social standing are considered more important than free thought and artistic pursuits. It is a time when love is just not relevant. Featuring the voices of Art Malik, Sacha Dhawan, Anjli Mohindra and Tony Jayawardena. (IMDb)

    Art has a rare and powerful ability. It has the ability to cross borders and be seen by people from all walks of life.  Art has the ability to give the viewer a perspective on a culture other then their own.  The Glassworker is the first hand drawn animated film from the nation of Pakistan.

   The film shows the struggles of being a passivist in a military state, on the verge of war.  The struggle is past from father to son, as a Romeo and Juliet style romance forms.  The discrimination from the military state is woven as a theme in the story.

   The Glassworker focuses on determination, gard work, morals, and self discovery as well. Like art, these themes cross borders, because they are part of the human experience. The film also does not sugar coat life.  The ups and downs are not shined away from in this film.  It is a refreshing change of pace to see that on screen.

    The animation is a visual feast.  There was much attention paid to the details.  Anyone a fan of the Japanese style of animation will enjoy the style of animation on display in The Glassworker.

   Honestly, this was a film I stumbled upon.  I am glad that I did because it was well worth the tine ib watching.

    Until next time I will see you at the movies!