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Much has been documented about the art of running, a healing activity with potential for emotional liberation. Within the context of professional sports, however, the strain of competition can make people lose sight of this ultimate goal. Reimagined from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime goes past trophies and medals to explore the existential drive that fuels an sports star’s dream.

Story Synopsis

The 100-Meter Film follows Togashi and Komiya, childhood friends whose life paths separate when they go pro. Once the quickest elementary student in Japan, Togashi guides the less confident Komiya with the fundamentals. As the twosome enter their youth and early maturity, Komiya consistently improves up the ranking of elite competitors, while Togashi is mired in a rut; both struggle with fears and doubts. Covering more than 15 years, the tale tracks their mental obstacles, exposing the challenges of an competitor’s existence, locked in a loop of media attention, performance expectations and sponsorship demands.

Visual Highlights

Possibly it’s down to the source material, but the animation’s answer to these complex dilemmas is a bit simplistic; repeatedly, a lead’s mental struggles quickly dissolve after a lengthy conversation with a colleague or elder. But what the film falls short in narrative subtlety and tempo, it makes up for in stunning imagery. Using trace-over animation, in which cartooning is superimposed on real-life video, the feature creates exquisitely intricate running sequences. The athletic effort of a sprint is visibly evident, and the struggle and triumph of competition are etched on the protagonists’ forms.

Unforgettable Scenes

One particularly momentous race finishes in the downpour, with sheets of monochrome brushwork that immerse the screen. Apart from conversation, these displays of creative mastery encapsulate the almost spiritual high the movie aims to inspire.

The 100-Meter Anime is showing in the United Kingdom from 16 November.