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A great deal has been documented about the art of running, a restorative movement with potential for cathartic release. Within the context of professional sports, however, the stress of competition can make people lose sight of this primary objective. Reimagined from the eponymous manga, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime looks beyond prizes and accolades to investigate the existential drive that spurs an athlete’s ambition.

Story Synopsis

The Sprint Story traces Togashi and Komiya, early-life buddies whose career trajectories split when they go pro. Formerly the fastest grade-schooler in Japan, Togashi helps the more uncertain Komiya with the basics. As the duo progress into their teens and their 20s, Komiya progressively advances up the standings of top athletes, while Togashi is mired in a rut; both confront anxieties and insecurities. Spanning more than 15 years, the tale follows their mental obstacles, revealing the difficulties of an competitor’s existence, locked in a loop of public scrutiny, result pressures and commercial obligations.

Visual Highlights

Perhaps it’s down to the source material, but the animation’s answer to these complex dilemmas is rather superficial; repeatedly, a protagonist’s uncertainties just vanish after a lengthy conversation with a fellow athlete or mentor. But what the anime lacks in narrative subtlety and rhythm, it redeems itself with in dazzling visuals. Using rotoscoping, in which animation is traced over real-life video, the feature generates exquisitely intricate dash moments. The physical exertion of a sprint is clearly shown, and the suffering and elation of competition are imprinted on the characters’ bodies.

Memorable Moments

One especially significant race finishes in the rain, with cascades of grey strokes that immerse the scene. Beyond spoken words, these displays of stylistic brilliance capture the quasi-enlightened elation the animation aims to inspire.

The 100-Meter Anime is showing in the United Kingdom from the 16th of November.