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A great deal has been documented about the practice of running, a restorative movement with capacity for therapeutic unburdening. Within the context of elite athletics, yet, the stress of contests can lead athletes to forget of this ultimate goal. Adapted from the eponymous manga, Kenji Iwaisawa’s spellbinding anime looks beyond prizes and accolades to examine the inner motivation that fuels an competitor’s aspiration.

Plot Overview

The Sprint Story traces Togashi and Komiya, youth companions whose life paths diverge when they turn professional. Previously the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi assists the less self-assured Komiya with the basics. As the duo enter their teens and their 20s, Komiya progressively advances up the standings of elite competitors, while Togashi is stuck in a slump; both battle fears and doubts. Encompassing more than 15 years, the tale follows their psychological barriers, laying bare the difficulties of an competitor’s existence, trapped in a pattern of public scrutiny, performance expectations and commercial obligations.

Artistic Strengths

Perhaps it’s down to the original work, but the film’s response to these complicated problems is somewhat facile; frequently, a lead’s mental struggles just vanish after a extended discussion with a colleague or elder. But what 100 Meters lacks in story nuance and tempo, it redeems itself with in stunning imagery. Utilizing live-action tracing, in which cartooning is traced over live-action footage, the film generates remarkably precise dash moments. The physical exertion of a race is visibly evident, and the struggle and triumph of rivalry are etched on the athletes’ physiques.

Impactful Sequences

One particularly momentous race concludes in the storm, with torrents of charcoal lines that overwhelm the screen. Beyond spoken words, these bursts of artistic excellence capture the near-transcendent euphoria the film aims to inspire.

100 Meters is in UK cinemas from the 16th of November.