Name: The Glassworker at the Rio Theatre
Start: 2025-09-20T12:45:00-07:00
Location: The Rio Theatre

In a town divided by duty and class, Vincent, a glassmaker’s son, and Alliz, a violinist who is the colonel’s daughter, fall in love. As their bond grows, rising tensions between their families threaten to pull them apart. Brought to life through stunning hand-drawn animation, THE GLASSWORKER is a poetic tale of first love, family, and the price of staying true to your art.
Winner of the Audience Award at the Asian World Film Festival, THE GLASSWORKER was Pakistan’s submission to the 2025 Academy Awards.
“Pakistan’s first hand-drawn animated feature film ever, and as Walt Disney did with “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” Riaz creates a masterpiece on his very first try.” (Next Best Picture)
“’The Glassworker’ goes beyond merely aping Hayao Miyazaki’s distinctive style. It gets to the heart of the anti-war sentiment that underscores much of his work.” (Variety)
“The theme of art being paramount to our lives could not be more vital right now. The movie also explores the difficulties inherent in two people connecting when they share conflicting ideologies.” (The Contending)
“A humanist tale aimed at youth … Showcasing how art and creativity can provide solace and strength, even in the darkest time.” (Screen Anarchy)
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Saturday, September 20
Doors 12:15 pm | Movie 12:45 pm *Start time subject to change. Please arrive on time.
Tickets www.riotheatretickets.ca
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THE GLASSWORKER (Usman Riaz, 2024 / 98 mins / G / English dub) The life of a young glassblower in training and his relationships over the years, as his land goes through war and strife.
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*Minors OK. Must be 19+ w/ID for bar service.
*Rio Theatre Groupons and passes OK for any single film only. Please redeem at the door.
*We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance at www.riotheatretickets.ca. If a screening or live event is not sold out, the remaining tickets will be available for purchase at the Rio Theatre’s Box Office prior to showtime (subject to availability).
*Our box office is typically open 30 minutes before showtime. All seating is General Admission; please arrive 20-30 minutes prior to showtime to ensure great seats, and time for treats at concession.
*If you are looking to redeem either a Rio Theatre gift certificate or Groupon to any regular Rio Theatre screening: You can either email us in advance and give us a “heads up,” or do it at the box office prior to showtime.
*All Rio Theatre tickets are final sale. No refunds, transfers, or exchanges.