Kōki Uchiyama and Kenjirō Tsuda, two celebrated names in voice acting, have joined the cast of Kenji Iwaisawa’s highly anticipated anime film, “100 Meters.” This exciting news adds even more buzz to the project, which is already generating significant attention for its unique animation style and compelling storyline. “100 Meters” is slated to premiere in Japan on September 19th, followed by a North American release in October, courtesy of GKIDS.
A Storied Production
“100 Meters” is directed by Kenji Iwaisawa, who gained international recognition for his indie rock anime film, “ON-GAKU: Our Sound.” The film is based on the manga “Hyakuemu” by Uoto, the author of “Orb: On the Movements of the Earth.” Iwaisawa directs from a screenplay penned by Yasuyuki Muto, known for his work on “Tokyo Revengers” and “Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway.”
The film is produced by Rock ‘n’ Roll Mountain, alongside Pony Canyon, Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS), and Asmik Ace in conjunction with GKIDS. The creative team includes character designer and executive animation director Keisuke Kojima, art director Keikankun Yamaguchi, and composer Hiroaki Tsutsumi, promising a visually and aurally stunning experience.
GKIDS Takes the Helm for North American Distribution
GKIDS, the renowned distributor known for bringing Studio Ghibli films to North American audiences, has acquired the investment and distribution rights for “100 Meters” in North America. This collaboration marks the second time GKIDS has teamed up with Kenji Iwaisawa, following their successful distribution of “ON-GAKU: Our Sound.”
According to GKIDS president David Jesteadt, “Director Iwaisawa has proven once again why sports has continued to be such an ideal lens to view and understand the human spirit. Even in something as simple a 100 meter race, the entire kaleidoscope of human emotion comes into play.”
The Story: More Than Just a Race
“100 Meters” follows the story of Togashi, a naturally gifted track star who effortlessly wins every 100-meter race. However, his life changes when he meets Komiya, a transfer student who lacks natural talent but possesses unwavering determination. Togashi mentors Komiya, inadvertently igniting a rivalry that reshapes their destinies. Years later, they reunite as rivals on the track, each running towards their own personal goals.
Synopsis Breakdown
- Togashi: A track prodigy blessed with innate speed and talent.
- Komiya: A determined underdog who strives to overcome his lack of natural ability through sheer willpower.
- Mentorship to Rivalry: The bond between Togashi and Komiya evolves from a student-teacher relationship into an intense athletic competition.
- Themes: The film explores themes of legacy, obsession, the pursuit of purpose, and the complexities of human relationships.
New Cast Members and Their Roles
- Kōki Uchiyama as Zaitsu: Uchiyama will voice Zaitsu, the undisputed champion who dominates the track and field world. He is described as the absolute champion who leads the track and field world.
- Kenjirō Tsuda as Kaido: Tsuda will play Kaido, who is constantly prevented from becoming champion by Zaitsu. He is described as someone who regularly falls short of Zaitsu.
- Tori Matsuzaka as Togashi: The naturally gifted track star.
- Shōta Sometani as Komiya: The determined runner who lacks natural talent.
Voice Actor Insights
- Kōki Uchiyama: “His lines use many unique phrases, so I was worried about how to express them, but Director Iwaizawa (Kenji) carefully directed me, and I was able to see the story through to the very end. I am personally very excited to see how ‘100 M’ will be visualized, including the way running is expressed, which is unique to animation. Be sure to see it in the theater!”
- Kenjirō Tsuda: “I believe a sports anime in a new realm has been born. It’s a sports-themed work, but it’s also more philosophical, profound and fascinating. It was an honor to be able to play a character with such a strong personality in the world that Uoto sensei has created. I tried to act as carefully as possible, but without losing the sense of dynamism. Please look forward to this sports anime like no other before. Be sure to see it in the theater!”
The Voices Behind the Characters: Kōki Uchiyama and Kenjirō Tsuda
Kōki Uchiyama: A Versatile Voice Actor
Kōki Uchiyama, born on August 16, 1990, is a highly acclaimed Japanese actor and voice actor. He is affiliated with Himawari Theatre Group and has received numerous accolades, including Best Male Rookie at the 5th Seiyu Awards and Best Voice Actor at the Tokyo Anime Award Festival in 2015.
Notable Roles
Uchiyama is best known for his roles as:
- Roxas and Ventus in the “Kingdom Hearts” series.
- Neku Sakuraba in “The World Ends with You.”
- Yuu Otosaka in “Charlotte.”
- Kei Tsukishima in “Haikyu!!”
- Tomura Shigaraki in “My Hero Academia.”
- Rei Suwa in “Buddy Daddies.”
- Meruem in “Hunter × Hunter.”
Uchiyama’s Filmography
Uchiyama has an extensive filmography that includes:
- Television Animation: “Soul Eater,” “Guilty Crown,” “Infinite Stratos,” “Yu-Gi-Oh! Zexal,” “Nisekoi,” “My Hero Academia,” “Horimiya,” and many more.
- Original Video Animation (OVA): “Gundam Unicorn.”
- Film: “Kingdom Hearts,” “The World Ends with You,” “My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising.”
- Video Games: “Kingdom Hearts” series, “Final Fantasy Type-0,” “Dragon Quest XI,” “Genshin Impact.”
Kenjirō Tsuda: A Multifaceted Talent
Kenjirō Tsuda, born on June 11, 1971, is a prominent Japanese actor, voice actor, and film director. He is known for his deep, resonant voice and his ability to portray a wide range of characters. Tsuda’s talent agency is ANDSTIR.
Notable Roles
Tsuda is widely recognized for his roles as:
- Seto Kaiba in “Yu-Gi-Oh!”
- Hannes in “Attack on Titan.”
- Overhaul in “My Hero Academia.”
- Nanami Kento in “Jujutsu Kaisen.”
- The Narrator in “The Way of the Househusband.”
Tsuda’s Filmography
Tsuda boasts an impressive filmography that includes:
- Anime Series: “Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters,” “GANGSTA.,” “91 Days,” “ACCA: 13-Territory Inspection Dept.,” “Jujutsu Kaisen,” “Golden Kamuy,” “Chainsaw Man.”
- Anime Films: “Yu-Gi-Oh!: The Dark Side of Dimensions,” “One Piece Film: Red,” “Belle.”
- Video Games: Numerous roles in various popular video game franchises.
- Live-Action: Tsuda has also appeared in several live-action films and television dramas.
Previous Collaborations
Notably, Kōki Uchiyama and Kenjirō Tsuda have previously worked together on other projects, including:
- FUUTO PI: Portrait of Kamen Rider Skull: In this anime film, Uchiyama voices Phillip, while Tsuda voices Sōkichi Narumi.
Production Details and Key Personnel
- Director: Kenji Iwaisawa (“ON-GAKU: Our Sound”)
- Original Manga: Uoto (“Orb: On the Movements of the Earth”)
- Screenplay: Yasuyuki Muto (“Tokyo Revengers,” “Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway”)
- Character Designer & Executive Animation Director: Keisuke Kojima (“Dororo,” “Monster”)
- Art Director: Keikankun Yamaguchi
- Music Composer: Hiroaki Tsutsumi (“Jujutsu Kaisen,” “Tokyo Revengers,” “Dr. Stone”)
- Animation Studio: Rock ‘n’ Roll Mountain
- Producers: Yūsuke Terada, Yūki Katayama, Akane Taketsugu
- Production Companies: Pony Canyon, Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS), ASMIK Ace, GKIDS
Release Information
- Japan: September 19, 2025
- North America: October 2025
A Glimpse at the Production: Annecy International Animation Film Festival
“100 Meters” has already garnered attention at prestigious events such as the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. The film was featured as a work-in-progress at the 2024 festival, generating buzz and anticipation among industry professionals and animation enthusiasts. The film officially screened on June 12th (local time) at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival 2025 in France.
Why “100 Meters” Is a Must-Watch
“100 Meters” promises to be a captivating and visually stunning anime film that explores universal themes of rivalry, determination, and self-discovery. With its unique animation style, compelling storyline, and stellar voice cast, this film is sure to resonate with audiences worldwide. Mark your calendars for September and October to witness the race of a lifetime!
