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Much has been documented about the act of running, a restorative movement with ability for cathartic release. Within the context of professional sports, yet, the pressure of contests can make people lose sight of this ultimate goal. Adapted from the same-named comic, Kenji Iwaisawa’s spellbinding anime goes past prizes and accolades to investigate the core impetus that fuels an sports star’s dream.

Story Synopsis

The 100-Meter Film traces Togashi and Komiya, youth companions whose life paths split when they turn professional. Previously the quickest elementary student in Japan, Togashi guides the less self-assured Komiya with the essentials. As the duo enter their youth and early maturity, Komiya progressively advances up the leaderboard of top athletes, while Togashi is mired in a rut; both struggle with anxieties and insecurities. Covering more than 15 years, the story documents their mental obstacles, revealing the difficulties of an competitor’s existence, locked in a loop of societal observation, result pressures and sponsorship demands.

Creative Merits

Maybe it’s due to the source material, but the film’s response to these intricate issues is rather superficial; time and time again, a character’s inner doubts quickly dissolve after a extended discussion with a peer or a senior. But what 100 Meters is deficient in narrative subtlety and pacing, it redeems itself with in stunning imagery. Employing trace-over animation, in which drawn art is superimposed on filmed sequences, the feature creates remarkably precise dash moments. The physical exertion of a sprint is clearly shown, and the struggle and triumph of contests are imprinted on the characters’ bodies.

Memorable Moments

One notably pivotal race concludes in the storm, with cascades of charcoal lines that immerse the screen. Beyond spoken words, these flourishes of creative mastery embody the almost spiritual high the film aims to evoke.

The Sprint Film is in UK cinemas from November 16.