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Plenty has been documented about the practice of running, a healing activity with ability for emotional liberation. In the sphere of professional sports, though, the pressure of competition can cause individuals to overlook of this primary objective. Adapted from the same-named comic, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime transcends trophies and medals to explore the inner motivation that drives an sports star’s dream.

Narrative Summary

The 100-Meter Film traces Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose career trajectories separate when they turn professional. Previously the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi assists the less self-assured Komiya with the basics. As the twosome progress into their teens and their 20s, Komiya progressively advances up the standings of elite competitors, while Togashi is stuck in a slump; both struggle with anxieties and insecurities. Encompassing more than 15 years, the story documents their mental obstacles, laying bare the challenges of an sports professional’s journey, trapped in a loop of societal observation, performance expectations and endorsement requirements.

Creative Merits

Possibly it’s because of the base story, but the movie’s approach to these complicated problems is a bit simplistic; repeatedly, a lead’s mental struggles quickly dissolve after a extended discussion with a colleague or elder. But what the anime is deficient in story nuance and rhythm, it redeems itself with in dazzling visuals. Employing live-action tracing, in which animation is superimposed on live-action footage, the film produces exquisitely intricate dash moments. The bodily strain of a dash is visibly evident, and the suffering and elation of contests are engraved on the protagonists’ forms.

Impactful Sequences

One especially significant race concludes in the storm, with torrents of monochrome brushwork that immerse the screen. Apart from conversation, these bursts of artistic excellence capture the almost spiritual high the movie aims to evoke.

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