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Much has been recorded about the practice of running, a healing activity with ability for cathartic release. Within the context of elite athletics, however, the pressure of competition can lead athletes to forget of this fundamental aim. Reimagined from the eponymous manga, Kenji Iwaisawa’s spellbinding anime goes past trophies and medals to investigate the inner motivation that fuels an competitor’s aspiration.

Story Synopsis

The 100-Meter Film chronicles Togashi and Komiya, youth companions whose life paths split when they enter elite competition. Once the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi guides the more uncertain Komiya with the fundamentals. As the duo enter their teens and their 20s, Komiya steadily accelerates up the leaderboard of elite competitors, while Togashi is trapped in a decline; both confront fears and doubts. Encompassing more than 15 years, the story follows their mental obstacles, revealing the challenges of an competitor’s existence, trapped in a pattern of public scrutiny, performance expectations and endorsement requirements.

Visual Highlights

Possibly it’s down to the source material, but the film’s response to these complex dilemmas is somewhat facile; frequently, a lead’s mental struggles just vanish after a prolonged talk with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what 100 Meters lacks in plot refinement and pacing, it redeems itself with in breathtaking graphics. Using live-action tracing, in which drawn art is superimposed on real-life video, the feature produces stunningly detailed sprinting scenes. The physical exertion of a race is clearly shown, and the pain and the joy of rivalry are engraved on the protagonists’ forms.

Memorable Moments

One especially significant race finishes in the rain, with sheets of charcoal lines that overwhelm the screen. Apart from conversation, these flourishes of artistic excellence encapsulate the near-transcendent euphoria the movie aims to inspire.

The 100-Meter Anime is in UK cinemas from the 16th of November.