🔗 Share this article

Much has been recorded about the practice of running, a healing activity with potential for cathartic release. Within the context of competitive games, however, the pressure of rivalry can make people lose sight of this ultimate goal. Transposed from the original graphic novel, Kenji Iwaisawa’s spellbinding anime transcends trophies and medals to investigate the inner motivation that spurs an competitor’s aspiration.

Narrative Summary

The Sprint Story follows Togashi and Komiya, youth companions whose life paths split when they go pro. Formerly the speediest young pupil in Japan, Togashi helps the more uncertain Komiya with the fundamentals. As the duo progress into their teens and their 20s, Komiya steadily accelerates up the standings of top athletes, while Togashi is mired in a rut; both confront worries and uncertainties. Spanning more than 15 years, the narrative documents their psychological barriers, laying bare the difficulties of an athlete’s life, locked in a pattern of media attention, achievement demands and endorsement requirements.

Artistic Strengths

Possibly it’s down to the original work, but the animation’s answer to these intricate issues is somewhat facile; time and time again, a protagonist’s uncertainties simply disappear after a prolonged talk with a peer or a senior. But what the anime falls short in narrative subtlety and rhythm, it redeems itself with in breathtaking graphics. Using rotoscoping, in which cartooning is drawn atop filmed sequences, the film generates remarkably precise sprinting scenes. The athletic effort of a dash is on full display, and the struggle and triumph of contests are imprinted on the protagonists’ forms.

Impactful Sequences

One particularly momentous race finishes in the storm, with sheets of charcoal lines that overwhelm the frame. Beyond spoken words, these flourishes of stylistic brilliance capture the quasi-enlightened elation the film aims to evoke.

The 100-Meter Anime is in UK cinemas from 16 November.