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Much has been written about the practice of running, a healing activity with ability for therapeutic unburdening. Within the context of competitive games, however, the stress of competition can cause individuals to overlook of this ultimate goal. Adapted from the eponymous manga, Kenji Iwaisawa’s mesmerising anime looks beyond trophies and medals to explore the inner motivation that fuels an sports star’s dream.

Narrative Summary

The Sprint Story follows Togashi and Komiya, childhood friends whose career trajectories diverge when they go pro. Previously the quickest elementary student in Japan, Togashi assists the less self-assured Komiya with the basics. As the twosome progress into their youth and early maturity, Komiya steadily accelerates up the leaderboard of top athletes, while Togashi is trapped in a decline; both battle worries and uncertainties. Covering more than 15 years, the tale follows their mental obstacles, revealing the struggles of an competitor’s existence, locked in a pattern of media attention, result pressures and sponsorship demands.

Visual Highlights

Perhaps it’s down to the original work, but the animation’s answer to these complex dilemmas is rather superficial; time and time again, a lead’s mental struggles simply disappear after a lengthy conversation with a peer or a senior. But what the anime falls short in narrative subtlety and rhythm, it compensates for in stunning imagery. Using rotoscoping, in which animation is traced over filmed sequences, the film creates exquisitely intricate sprinting scenes. The bodily strain of a race is clearly shown, and the suffering and elation of competition are etched on the athletes’ physiques.

Unforgettable Scenes

One particularly momentous race concludes in the downpour, with sheets of monochrome brushwork that immerse the screen. Beyond spoken words, these bursts of artistic excellence capture the near-transcendent euphoria the film aims to provoke.

The 100-Meter Anime is released in Britain from the 16th of November.