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Plenty has been documented about the art of running, a restorative movement with potential for therapeutic unburdening. In the realm of elite athletics, though, the stress of rivalry can make people lose sight of this ultimate goal. Adapted from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime looks beyond awards and honors to investigate the inner motivation that fuels an sports star’s dream.

Narrative Summary

The 100-Meter Film chronicles Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose life paths split when they go pro. Once the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi assists the less confident Komiya with the fundamentals. As the pair enter their youth and early maturity, Komiya consistently improves up the standings of elite competitors, while Togashi is trapped in a decline; both confront fears and doubts. Spanning more than 15 years, the narrative follows their mental obstacles, revealing the struggles of an sports professional’s journey, trapped in a cycle of public scrutiny, achievement demands and endorsement requirements.

Creative Merits

Perhaps it’s because of the base story, but the film’s response to these complicated problems is somewhat facile; frequently, a lead’s mental struggles just vanish after a extended discussion with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what 100 Meters falls short in plot refinement and rhythm, it compensates for in breathtaking graphics. Using rotoscoping, in which drawn art is traced over real-life video, the movie generates stunningly detailed running sequences. The athletic effort of a race is visibly evident, and the struggle and triumph of rivalry are engraved on the protagonists’ forms.

Unforgettable Scenes

One especially significant race ends in the downpour, with cascades of charcoal lines that engulf the scene. Beyond spoken words, these displays of artistic excellence capture the almost spiritual high the movie aims to evoke.

100 Meters is released in Britain from the 16th of November.