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Much has been written about the act of running, a restorative movement with capacity for therapeutic unburdening. Within the context of competitive games, however, the strain of contests can cause individuals to overlook of this primary objective. Reimagined from the same-named comic, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime transcends trophies and medals to explore the core impetus that drives an competitor’s aspiration.

Narrative Summary

The 100-Meter Film follows Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose personal journeys diverge when they go pro. Formerly the fastest grade-schooler in Japan, Togashi helps the more uncertain Komiya with the fundamentals. As the duo enter their youth and early maturity, Komiya consistently improves up the leaderboard of elite competitors, while Togashi is stuck in a slump; both confront fears and doubts. Encompassing more than 15 years, the story documents their mental obstacles, laying bare the difficulties of an athlete’s life, trapped in a loop of public scrutiny, achievement demands and commercial obligations.

Creative Merits

Perhaps it’s because of the original work, but the film’s response to these intricate issues is rather superficial; repeatedly, a protagonist’s uncertainties quickly dissolve after a lengthy conversation with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what the film lacks in narrative subtlety and rhythm, it redeems itself with in stunning imagery. Employing live-action tracing, in which drawn art is traced over live-action footage, the feature produces remarkably precise running sequences. The physical exertion of a dash is visibly evident, and the pain and the joy of contests are etched on the athletes’ physiques.

Unforgettable Scenes

One notably pivotal race finishes in the storm, with torrents of grey strokes that immerse the scene. Beyond spoken words, these displays of stylistic brilliance encapsulate the near-transcendent euphoria the movie aims to evoke.

The 100-Meter Anime is released in Britain from the 16th of November.