Introduction to the World of "100 Meters"
The upcoming anime "100 Meters," an adaptation of Uoto's manga Hyakuemu, promises to bring the intensity of athletics to the screen. Following its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, a promotional video has been released detailing the five main characters. The film, which draws inspiration from the world of sprinting, explores themes of ambition, rivalry, and the search for meaning through speed and competition. Directed by Kenji Iwaizawa (known for his work on "Music") with original music by Hiroaki Tsutsumi, the film will premiere in Japan on September 19, with a North American release scheduled for October.
The Five Central Characters: A Deep Dive
The promotional video introduces five distinct characters, each with their own motivations for running the 100-meter race (from left to right).
- Togashi, voiced by Tori Matsuzaka, is a natural prodigy who believes that if he can run faster than anyone else, all his problems will be solved.
- Komiya (voiced by Shōta Sometani) finds new purpose through Togashi's influence and aspires to achieve glory, even if only for a brief moment.
- Jinshin seeks victory at all costs, while
- Zaitsu embodies absolute dedication to the sport. Finally,
- Kaido pursues Zaitsu with total self-acceptance. These contrasting personalities are at the heart of the exciting sports drama.
Voice Cast: Top Japanese Talents Bring Characters to Life
The film features a top-tier Japanese voice cast that brings these complex characters to life. In addition to Tori Matsuzaka and Shōta Sometani, the cast includes Kōki Uchiyama (Zaitsu), Kenjirō Tsuda (Kaidō), and Jun Kasama (Jinshin). Other notable names include Rie Takahashi, Yuki Tanaka, Atsumi Tanezaki, and Aoi Yūki.
Production Details: A Team Dedicated to Quality
"100 Meters" is being produced by Rock 'n' Roll Mountain, the same studio behind the acclaimed "Music." The direction is led by Kenji Iwaizawa, with the script written by Yasuyuki Mutō (Tokyo Revengers). Keisuke Kojima is in charge of character design and serves as the chief animation director. The original soundtrack is composed by Hiroaki Tsutsumi, and the theme song "Rashisa" is performed by Official HiGE DANdism.
Beyond the Sprint: Deeper Themes Explored
While the story centers on intense athletic competition, it also explores deeper themes like the search for identity, the pressure to succeed, and the complex relationships between rivals and friends. Uoto's original manga, which began in 2018, aims to capture the passion that drives sprinters where every second counts.
