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Much has been written about the art of running, a healing activity with potential for cathartic release. In the realm of competitive games, though, the pressure of rivalry can cause individuals to overlook of this fundamental aim. Transposed from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s enthralling anime looks beyond prizes and accolades to investigate the inner motivation that drives an athlete’s ambition.

Story Synopsis

100 Meters follows Togashi and Komiya, childhood friends whose career trajectories split when they go pro. Formerly the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi guides the more uncertain Komiya with the basics. As the duo progress into their youth and early maturity, Komiya consistently improves up the ranking of elite competitors, while Togashi is mired in a rut; both confront fears and doubts. Covering more than 15 years, the tale tracks their psychological barriers, revealing the struggles of an competitor’s existence, locked in a cycle of media attention, result pressures and sponsorship demands.

Artistic Strengths

Perhaps it’s down to the original work, but the movie’s approach to these complicated problems is rather superficial; repeatedly, a protagonist’s uncertainties quickly dissolve after a extended discussion with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what 100 Meters lacks in plot refinement and pacing, it makes up for in stunning imagery. Using trace-over animation, in which drawn art is superimposed on real-life video, the feature generates stunningly detailed sprinting scenes. The bodily strain of a race is clearly shown, and the struggle and triumph of rivalry are engraved on the protagonists’ forms.

Memorable Moments

One notably pivotal race concludes in the rain, with torrents of grey strokes that immerse the scene. Apart from conversation, these displays of creative mastery encapsulate the almost spiritual high the animation aims to provoke.

The Sprint Film is released in Britain from the 16th of November.