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A great deal has been written about the art of running, a healing activity with ability for cathartic release. In the sphere of professional sports, yet, the strain of contests can make people lose sight of this fundamental aim. Adapted from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime looks beyond trophies and medals to explore the core impetus that fuels an competitor’s aspiration.

Story Synopsis

The Sprint Story follows Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose personal journeys split when they enter elite competition. Formerly the fastest grade-schooler in Japan, Togashi guides the less confident Komiya with the essentials. As the pair progress into their adolescence and adulthood, Komiya progressively advances up the leaderboard of elite competitors, while Togashi is mired in a rut; both battle fears and doubts. Spanning more than 15 years, the tale follows their mental obstacles, revealing the struggles of an sports professional’s journey, locked in a pattern of public scrutiny, performance expectations and commercial obligations.

Creative Merits

Perhaps it’s because of the base story, but the film’s response to these complex dilemmas is somewhat facile; time and time again, a protagonist’s uncertainties quickly dissolve after a prolonged talk with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what the film is deficient in narrative subtlety and pacing, it compensates for in dazzling visuals. Utilizing trace-over animation, in which drawn art is superimposed on real-life video, the film creates remarkably precise running sequences. The bodily strain of a race is on full display, and the pain and the joy of rivalry are etched on the protagonists’ forms.

Memorable Moments

One especially significant race ends in the rain, with cascades of grey strokes that immerse the screen. More than any dialogue, these flourishes of stylistic brilliance embody the quasi-enlightened elation the movie aims to evoke.

100 Meters is in UK cinemas from the 16th of November.