New York City is set to host the East Coast premiere of the highly anticipated anime film, 100 Meters (Hyakuemu), on October 8, 2025, at the Japan Society. Director Kenji Iwaisawa, known for his work on ON-GAKU: Our Sound, will be present for a post-screening Q&A session.
The screening, presented in Japanese with English subtitles, is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. and offers anime enthusiasts a prime opportunity to experience the film and engage directly with its acclaimed director.
A Deep Dive into “100 Meters”
100 Meters is an anime adaptation of Uoto’s beloved manga, a sports drama that delves into themes of friendship, rivalry, and perseverance within the world of track and field. The narrative centers on Togashi, a naturally gifted runner who effortlessly excels, and Komiya, a determined transfer student whose encounter with Togashi sparks a profound bond and a new purpose in the 100-meter dash. Years later, the two reunite as rivals, competing not just for victory but for their pride and identity.
The Visionary Behind the Lens: Kenji Iwaisawa
Kenji Iwaisawa directs the film, bringing his unique artistic vision to the project. He gained significant recognition for his debut feature, ON-GAKU: Our Sound, an independent film celebrated for its hand-drawn animation and rotoscoping technique. 100 Meters also utilizes bold rotoscope animation, promising a lifelike quality to every stride and emotional beat on screen. The film is produced by Studio Rock ‘n’ Roll Mountain.
Stellar Cast and Crew
The film boasts an impressive voice cast, with Tori Matsuzaka lending his voice to the talented runner Togashi, and Shota Sometani portraying the determined Komiya. Additional cast members include Koki Uchiyama as Saizu, Kenjiro Tsuda as Kaido, and Rie Takahashi as Asakusa, among others. The screenplay was penned by Yasuyuki Muto, known for Tokyo Revengers, and the score was composed by Hiroaki Tsutsumi, who has worked on titles like Jujutsu Kaisen. Popular band Official HiGE DANdism performs the film’s theme song, “Rashisa,” further enhancing its emotional depth.
International Recognition and Wider Release
100 Meters held its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival on June 12, 2025, and subsequently premiered in Japan on September 19, 2025. Following its East Coast premiere, GKIDS is set to release the film in North American theaters, with screenings scheduled from October 12-14, 2025. A special opening screening will also take place in Los Angeles on October 10.
Tickets for the Japan Society East Coast premiere are available for purchase on the Japan Society’s official website.
