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Much has been written about the practice of running, a therapeutic exercise with capacity for cathartic release. Within the context of elite athletics, yet, the strain of competition can make people lose sight of this primary objective. Transposed from the eponymous manga, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime goes past prizes and accolades to explore the inner motivation that drives an athlete’s ambition.

Narrative Summary

The 100-Meter Film traces Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose career trajectories diverge when they enter elite competition. Once the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi assists the less self-assured Komiya with the essentials. As the duo progress into their teens and their 20s, Komiya steadily accelerates up the leaderboard of top athletes, while Togashi is mired in a rut; both struggle with anxieties and insecurities. Spanning more than 15 years, the narrative documents their internal hurdles, exposing the struggles of an athlete’s life, locked in a pattern of societal observation, achievement demands and commercial obligations.

Artistic Strengths

Perhaps it’s due to the original work, but the film’s response to these intricate issues is rather superficial; repeatedly, a protagonist’s uncertainties quickly dissolve after a prolonged talk with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what the film is deficient in plot refinement and rhythm, it redeems itself with in breathtaking graphics. Using trace-over animation, in which cartooning is traced over real-life video, the movie creates exquisitely intricate running sequences. The athletic effort of a sprint is clearly shown, and the suffering and elation of rivalry are etched on the protagonists’ forms.

Unforgettable Scenes

One notably pivotal race finishes in the downpour, with cascades of monochrome brushwork that engulf the screen. More than any dialogue, these displays of stylistic brilliance embody the quasi-enlightened elation the movie aims to inspire.

The Sprint Film is released in Britain from 16 November.