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A great deal has been documented about the practice of running, a therapeutic exercise with ability for cathartic release. Within the context of competitive games, though, the strain of rivalry can cause individuals to overlook of this primary objective. Adapted from the same-named comic, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime goes past trophies and medals to investigate the inner motivation that spurs an athlete’s ambition.

Narrative Summary

The Sprint Story follows Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose personal journeys separate when they go pro. Once the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi helps the less confident Komiya with the essentials. As the duo enter their youth and early maturity, Komiya steadily accelerates up the standings of elite competitors, while Togashi is stuck in a slump; both struggle with fears and doubts. Encompassing more than 15 years, the story tracks their psychological barriers, laying bare the challenges of an competitor’s existence, locked in a cycle of public scrutiny, achievement demands and sponsorship demands.

Visual Highlights

Perhaps it’s because of the base story, but the animation’s answer to these complicated problems is somewhat facile; repeatedly, a lead’s mental struggles simply disappear after a lengthy conversation with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what the anime falls short in plot refinement and pacing, it redeems itself with in breathtaking graphics. Using trace-over animation, in which cartooning is superimposed on filmed sequences, the feature creates stunningly detailed dash moments. The physical exertion of a race is visibly evident, and the pain and the joy of contests are etched on the characters’ bodies.

Unforgettable Scenes

One notably pivotal race ends in the downpour, with cascades of charcoal lines that engulf the scene. Apart from conversation, these displays of stylistic brilliance capture the almost spiritual high the film aims to inspire.

100 Meters is released in Britain from the 16th of November.