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Much has been documented about the practice of running, a therapeutic exercise with potential for emotional liberation. In the sphere of competitive games, though, the stress of contests can cause individuals to overlook of this fundamental aim. Transposed from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s spellbinding anime looks beyond trophies and medals to examine the core impetus that spurs an sports star’s dream.

Plot Overview

The 100-Meter Film traces Togashi and Komiya, youth companions whose career trajectories split when they go pro. Once the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi assists the more uncertain Komiya with the essentials. As the twosome enter their youth and early maturity, Komiya progressively advances up the standings of premier sportspeople, while Togashi is trapped in a decline; both struggle with fears and doubts. Encompassing more than 15 years, the tale tracks their psychological barriers, revealing the challenges of an competitor’s existence, caught in a pattern of public scrutiny, result pressures and endorsement requirements.

Artistic Strengths

Perhaps it’s down to the source material, but the movie’s approach to these intricate issues is a bit simplistic; frequently, a character’s inner doubts just vanish after a extended discussion with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what the anime falls short in narrative subtlety and pacing, it makes up for in dazzling visuals. Using live-action tracing, in which drawn art is traced over live-action footage, the film generates stunningly detailed dash moments. The bodily strain of a race is visibly evident, and the suffering and elation of rivalry are etched on the characters’ bodies.

Unforgettable Scenes

One particularly momentous race finishes in the rain, with torrents of grey strokes that immerse the screen. Apart from conversation, these displays of artistic excellence embody the quasi-enlightened elation the animation aims to evoke.

The Sprint Film is in UK cinemas from November 16.