

TV Show spotlight
Run with the Wind
Kakeru, a former elite runner at high school, is chased for stealing food. He is saved by Kansei University student Haiji, who is also a runner. Haiji persuades Kakeru to live in the old apartment "Chikuseisou" where he plans to team up with fellow residents to enter Hakone Ekiden Marathon, one of the most prominent university races in Japan. Kakeru soon finds out that all of the residents except for Haiji and himself are complete novices.
Insights
Plot Summary
Kakeru Kurahara, a former sprinter who was kicked off his university's track team due to his past, discovers a hidden talent for long-distance running. He joins the Hakone Ekiden, a prestigious inter-university relay race, with his highly intelligent but physically unfit friend, Hanako. Together, they strive to overcome their limitations and achieve their dreams.
Critical Reception
Run with the Wind (Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru) was generally well-received by critics and audiences alike, particularly praised for its compelling character development, emotional depth, and inspiring portrayal of the grueling Hakone Ekiden race. The animation and faithfulness to the source material were also highlighted as strengths.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its emotional narrative and character arcs.
Celebrated for its dynamic portrayal of athletic struggle and teamwork.
Lauded for its beautiful animation and engaging pacing.
Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly enjoyed the film, highlighting its inspiring story, well-developed characters, and thrilling depiction of the running race. Many found it to be a deeply moving and motivating experience.
Fun Fact
The anime is based on a critically acclaimed novel of the same name by Shion Miura, which also inspired a live-action film and a stage play.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources