Free! (2013) Review in 2025
Free! is a Japanese anime film that follows the story of Haruka Nanase, a high school student who joins a swim team to pursue his passion for swimming. The film is a heartwarming and action-packed ride that explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Free! is suitable for families with older children, but parental discretion is advised due to some mild language and themes.
CineReview Recommendation
Free! is a must-watch for fans of anime, sports, and coming-of-age stories. It's a heartwarming and inspiring film that will leave you feeling uplifted and motivated.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film takes a dramatic turn when Haruka and his friends face off against their arch-rivals, the Iwatobi swim team, in a high-stakes competition. Along the way, Haruka must confront his own doubts and fears to become the swimmer he truly wants to be.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear structure and character development. However, some plot points feel a bit predictable and could be improved upon.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with great performances from the entire cast. The voice acting is particularly impressive, bringing the characters to life with their emotions and expressions.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with distinct personalities and backstories. Haruka's character development is particularly impressive, as he learns to overcome his fears and doubts.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with good camera work and editing. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed and could benefit from more attention to detail.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is excellent, with beautiful shots of the ocean and the swim team's training sessions. The use of color and lighting is also noteworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Free! is a beautifully animated film with a engaging story, well-developed characters, and excellent cinematography. The voice acting is superb, and the themes of perseverance and self-discovery are inspiring and relatable.
Cons
Some plot points feel a bit predictable, and some scenes could benefit from more attention to detail. However, these minor flaws do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the film.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not just swimming for myself, I'm swimming for my friends, for my family, and for the people who believe in me."
"The only way to get better is to keep pushing yourself, to keep challenging yourself, and to never give up."
