Free! Is About Finding Your Way and Letting Go
On Diverging and Converging Paths
INTRODUCTION
I first discovered Free! in 2020 at the height of the pandemic and strict lockdown measures. I got drawn to it because I used to take swimming lessons as a kid, so I then thought I could relive those moments through this show.
At first, I initially dropped it because it seemed to be marred with female fan service. But when I gave it another try, I saw the depth of the story.
It’s about forming friendships, resolving conflict, and finding your path.
Free! spans 3 seasons and 7 films that lasted over 9 years. With the release of Free! Movie 5: The Final Stroke — Kouhen last year, the story was finally concluded.
PLOT
Free! — Iwatobi Swim Club
Haru loves the water and is passionate about swimming. In elementary school, he won a relay race with his three friends: Rin, Nagisa, and Makoto.
Years later, they reunite as high school students. However, Rin no longer cares about their friendship, as his prime concern is to prove…
