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Plenty has been written about the act of running, a restorative movement with potential for cathartic release. In the realm of professional sports, however, the pressure of contests can lead athletes to forget of this ultimate goal. Reimagined from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s spellbinding anime transcends trophies and medals to examine the core impetus that spurs an sports star’s dream.

Story Synopsis

The Sprint Story follows Togashi and Komiya, childhood friends whose life paths split when they go pro. Previously the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi assists the more uncertain Komiya with the essentials. As the pair progress into their adolescence and adulthood, Komiya progressively advances up the standings of premier sportspeople, while Togashi is mired in a rut; both confront anxieties and insecurities. Spanning more than 15 years, the narrative tracks their mental obstacles, exposing the challenges of an sports professional’s journey, trapped in a cycle of public scrutiny, performance expectations and endorsement requirements.

Creative Merits

Perhaps it’s due to the base story, but the animation’s answer to these complicated problems is a bit simplistic; repeatedly, a character’s inner doubts quickly dissolve after a lengthy conversation with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what 100 Meters falls short in plot refinement and rhythm, it compensates for in breathtaking graphics. Utilizing trace-over animation, in which animation is drawn atop real-life video, the movie produces remarkably precise sprinting scenes. The athletic effort of a dash is on full display, and the suffering and elation of contests are imprinted on the athletes’ physiques.

Impactful Sequences

One notably pivotal race finishes in the downpour, with sheets of grey strokes that immerse the frame. Apart from conversation, these displays of artistic excellence embody the quasi-enlightened elation the movie aims to provoke.

The Sprint Film is in UK cinemas from the 16th of November.