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Plenty has been written about the art of running, a restorative movement with ability for cathartic release. In the sphere of competitive games, yet, the strain of contests can make people lose sight of this primary objective. Reimagined from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s spellbinding anime goes past awards and honors to investigate the existential drive that fuels an competitor’s aspiration.

Story Synopsis

The 100-Meter Film follows Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose career trajectories separate when they go pro. Previously the fastest grade-schooler in Japan, Togashi assists the less confident Komiya with the basics. As the pair move through their adolescence and adulthood, Komiya progressively advances up the ranking of elite competitors, while Togashi is stuck in a slump; both struggle with fears and doubts. Encompassing more than 15 years, the tale documents their mental obstacles, laying bare the challenges of an athlete’s life, locked in a pattern of public scrutiny, result pressures and endorsement requirements.

Creative Merits

Possibly it’s down to the source material, but the movie’s approach to these intricate issues is somewhat facile; repeatedly, a lead’s mental struggles quickly dissolve after a lengthy conversation with a peer or a senior. But what the film lacks in story nuance and pacing, it makes up for in stunning imagery. Utilizing trace-over animation, in which drawn art is superimposed on real-life video, the feature creates remarkably precise running sequences. The bodily strain of a race is on full display, and the suffering and elation of contests are imprinted on the protagonists’ forms.

Unforgettable Scenes

One particularly momentous race ends in the rain, with torrents of grey strokes that immerse the screen. Apart from conversation, these flourishes of creative mastery embody the near-transcendent euphoria the film aims to provoke.

100 Meters is released in Britain from November 16.