400 Meters (400 Mètres) is a 14-minute, 45-second sports-fiction short made in France and directed by Thibault Delautre. Produced in an academic setting (3iS), it is the director's first work and is shot in French.
The story focuses on athletics, specifically the 400 metres, and addresses competition, rivalry and personal growth within a youth sports team. It follows Arthur and Enzo, the two best runners at their athletics club, bound by a strongly antagonistic relationship.
Played respectively by Victor Senegas (Arthur) and Daby Seye (Enzo), the two protagonists are at the centre of a challenge that is both physical and emotional. After an argument during training, their coach (Laurent Cyr as Thierry) imposes a choice: only one can represent the club at the regional competition. This decision becomes the turning point that forces them to confront one another, overcome destructive competition and learn mutual respect, finding the strength to improve.
400 Meters conveys the value of sporting commitment as a tool for personal and relational growth. The short film reflects on the importance of mutual respect and on the maturity that can arise even from apparently irreconcilable conflicts, especially in the formative context of youth activities.
The film was completed on 30 December 2023 and is a student project made on a modest budget. It is produced by Alexandre Berthorelly, with storytelling that combines sporting tension and personal introspection.
Film Details
Title: 400 Meters
Original title: 400 Mètres
Director: Thibault Delautre
Production: Alexandre Berthorelly
Country: France
Language: French
Running time: 14 minutes 45 seconds
Genre: Fiction
Sport featured: Athletics (400 metres)
Protagonist(s): Daby Seye, Victor Senegas, Laurent Cyr, Aude Macé
Completion date: 30 December 2023
Premiere: [Not specified]
Distributor: [Not specified]
Shooting format: HD 1920×1080, 1.85, colour
Director's first film: Yes
Student project: Yes – 3iS