Run with the Wind
Synopsis
Former ace runner of Sendai Josei High School, Kakeru Kurahara is chased away from a convenience store for shoplifting. Shaking off his pursuer, he runs into Haiji Kiyose, another student from his university. Haiji is impressed by Kakeru's agility and persuades him to live in Chikusei-sou, the run-down apartment where Haiji resides along with eight other students. Having lost his entire apartment deposit at a mahjong parlor, Kakeru accepts the offer reluctantly. However, Haiji reveals a secret during Kakeru's welcoming party: the apartment is actually the dormitory of the Kansei University Track Club. He unveils his ultimate goal of participating in the Hakone Ekiden—one of the most prominent university marathon relay races in Japan. Unfortunately, all the residents apart from Haiji and Kakeru are complete running novices. Worse still, none of the inhabitants are even remotely interested in being involved with Haiji's ridiculous plan! With only months before the deadline, will the fourth-year student be able to convince them otherwise and realize his elusive dream of running in the Hakone Ekiden? [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Viewers are overwhelmingly positive about Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru, praising its character development, inspiring story, and mature themes. While some critique the pacing or rushed ending, the general sentiment is that it's a well-crafted sports anime that transcends the genre. The show is viewed as a 'hidden gem'.
Strengths
- Well-developed characters with realistic growth
- Relatable and mature portrayal of college students
- Inspiring story about chasing dreams and overcoming challenges
- Excellent pacing and storytelling with no wasted moments
- Amazing soundtrack and gorgeous art style
- Meaningful exploration of youth and friendship
- Show combines elements of sports and slice-of-life well
Weaknesses
- Ending felt rushed
- Some unrealistic dramatic scenes
- Character art for Kakeru is inconsistent
- May be slower-paced or boring for some viewers
- Synopsis does not accurately represent the anime
- Some consider the sport elements unrealistic