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A great deal has been documented about the art of running, a restorative movement with ability for emotional liberation. In the sphere of elite athletics, though, the pressure of contests can lead athletes to forget of this primary objective. Transposed from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s enthralling anime goes past prizes and accolades to examine the existential drive that fuels an competitor’s aspiration.

Story Synopsis

100 Meters chronicles Togashi and Komiya, youth companions whose career trajectories split when they go pro. Previously the fastest grade-schooler in Japan, Togashi assists the more uncertain Komiya with the basics. As the twosome move through their youth and early maturity, Komiya progressively advances up the ranking of premier sportspeople, while Togashi is trapped in a decline; both struggle with fears and doubts. Covering more than 15 years, the tale tracks their internal hurdles, exposing the challenges of an competitor’s existence, locked in a loop of societal observation, result pressures and commercial obligations.

Artistic Strengths

Maybe it’s because of the source material, but the movie’s approach to these complex dilemmas is rather superficial; time and time again, a protagonist’s uncertainties just vanish after a extended discussion with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what the film falls short in narrative subtlety and tempo, it compensates for in stunning imagery. Using trace-over animation, in which drawn art is drawn atop real-life video, the film produces stunningly detailed sprinting scenes. The athletic effort of a sprint is clearly shown, and the pain and the joy of rivalry are imprinted on the athletes’ physiques.

Unforgettable Scenes

One particularly momentous race finishes in the rain, with sheets of grey strokes that overwhelm the screen. Beyond spoken words, these flourishes of stylistic brilliance capture the almost spiritual high the film aims to inspire.

100 Meters is showing in the United Kingdom from 16 November.