Introduction

GKIDS, the Academy Award®-winning producer and distributor of artist-driven animated features from around the globe, will release 100 METERS (Hyakuemu.), the new film from acclaimed director Kenji Iwaisawa (ON-GAKU: Our Sound), in North American theaters this fall. The film opens in Los Angeles on October 10, with a nationwide event release set for October 12–14.

100 Meters will be available in both the original Japanese with English subtitles and a newly recorded English dub. The film will premiere in Japan on September 19.

Details & Information

Based on the manga by Uoto, author of Orb: On the Movements of the Earth, 100 METERS is a heart-pounding story of determination, rivalry, and self-discovery. The film’s development was first announced ahead of its sold-out “Work-in-Progress” session at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival and later held its world premiere as an official selection at Annecy 2025.

Produced at studio Rock’n Roll Mountain, the film features character designs by Keisuke Kojima, art direction by Keikankun Yamaguchi, a screenplay from Yasuyuki Muto (Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway, Tokyo Revengers), and a score by Hiroaki Tsutsumi (Jujutsu Kaisen, Dr. Stone).

The project is co-produced by Pony Canyon, Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS), and Asmik Ace, with North American distribution from GKIDS.

Additional Insights

100 METERS is directed by Kenji Iwaisawa, best known for his award-winning debut ON-GAKU: Our Sound, a deadpan music comedy that took over seven years to create using over 40,000 hand-drawn frames and rotoscope animation. ON-GAKU earned several nominations, including Best Independent Animated Feature at the Annie Awards, and was also distributed in North America by GKIDS.

This new film marks the second collaboration between GKIDS and Kenji Iwaisawa.

Watch the New Trailer

Conclusion

100 METERS follows Togashi, a gifted young sprinter who has never lost a 100-meter race. But everything changes when he meets Komiya, a determined transfer student with no technique but unmatched spirit. Years later, the two reunite — not as friends, but as fierce rivals — in a final showdown on the track that will test their will, strength, and what it means to truly run.

Don’t miss the U.S. theatrical release:
Los Angeles opening: October 10
Nationwide event release: October 12–14

For more information, visit: GKIDS.com

ーOfficial Press Release