Is Free! the Final Stroke the First Volume Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2021)

📖 The Core Premise

Free! the Final Stroke the First Volume returns to the screen in 2021, bringing a fresh narrative to the Animation, Drama, Comedy genre. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "As representatives of Japan, Haruka, Rin, and Ikuya are heading to Sydney to participate in the Swimming World Cup. They will finally compete with world class athletes but can they survive these games? This is the climax of the “Free!” series from Kyoto Animation."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Nobunaga Shimazaki shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Animation. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Free! the Final Stroke the First Volume worth your time? If you appreciate Animation, Drama, Comedy films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Free! the Final Stroke the First Volume is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 86 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.