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Plenty has been written about the practice of running, a restorative movement with ability for therapeutic unburdening. In the sphere of professional sports, yet, the stress of rivalry can cause individuals to overlook of this ultimate goal. Transposed from the eponymous manga, Kenji Iwaisawa’s spellbinding anime looks beyond trophies and medals to examine the core impetus that fuels an competitor’s aspiration.

Plot Overview

The 100-Meter Film follows Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose life paths separate when they enter elite competition. Once the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi guides the less confident Komiya with the essentials. As the twosome progress into their adolescence and adulthood, Komiya progressively advances up the standings of elite competitors, while Togashi is trapped in a decline; both struggle with fears and doubts. Covering more than 15 years, the story follows their psychological barriers, revealing the difficulties of an sports professional’s journey, caught in a cycle of media attention, achievement demands and commercial obligations.

Artistic Strengths

Possibly it’s due to the original work, but the movie’s approach to these intricate issues is somewhat facile; frequently, a protagonist’s uncertainties just vanish after a prolonged talk with a colleague or elder. But what the film is deficient in narrative subtlety and rhythm, it makes up for in stunning imagery. Using trace-over animation, in which cartooning is superimposed on filmed sequences, the film produces exquisitely intricate dash moments. The physical exertion of a dash is on full display, and the suffering and elation of contests are etched on the characters’ bodies.

Unforgettable Scenes

One particularly momentous race finishes in the storm, with cascades of grey strokes that overwhelm the frame. Beyond spoken words, these flourishes of artistic excellence capture the almost spiritual high the animation aims to provoke.

The Sprint Film is in UK cinemas from 16 November.