On Monday, May 15, Anime Limited will unveil the first part of the Collector’s Blu-ray/DVD edition of Free The Final Stroke. This eagerly anticipated release will come accompanied by 12 art cards, adding a delightful touch to the collection. The project’s tagline, “Let’s go, to the stage of glory,” perfectly captures the essence of the series, fueling the excitement and ambition within its narrative.
Since its release in 2013, Kyoto Animation’s Free Iwatobi Swim Club has remained a beloved sports anime. Over the course of nine years, the franchise has flourished, treating fans to three anime series, five films, a variety of character music CDs, and an array of captivating merchandise that enthusiasts can immerse themselves in.
In Japan, the journey of Free The Final Stroke commenced with the release of the initial film in September 2021, followed by the second installment in April 2022. These films depict Haruka’s long-awaited arrival in Sydney, the ultimate destination for his ambitious, competitive swimming career. As Haruka embarks on this new chapter, he finds himself in the company of friends and rivals from the All Japan Invitational, including the reigning world champion, Albert Volandel. To ascend to the pinnacle of the swimming world, Haruka may find himself confronted with the need to make sacrifices, even if it means relinquishing his dream of swimming alongside his cherished companions.
Free Iwatobi Swim Club: New Expectations For Sports Anime
The original TV anime series, Free!, created by Kyoto Animation, made its debut in July 2013, centering around the Iwatobi High School Swim Club. The success of the series led to the development of two additional TV seasons and several films, including the prequel High Speed! -Free! Starting Days- and Free! -Take Your Marks-, an omnibus film presenting a collection of captivating short stories.
Kyoto Animation’s Free Iwatobi Swim Club has thrived since its release in 2013, captivating audiences with its sports-oriented storytelling. Over the span of nine years, the franchise has delighted fans with three anime series, five films, numerous character music CDs, and a rich selection of sought-after merchandise.
The second volume of Free The Final Stroke was released in Japanese theaters on April 22, 2022, garnering immense success, with box office earnings surpassing 910 million yen (approximately US$6.89 million). It stands as the highest-grossing film within the franchise. The first volume of the duology debuted in Japan on September 17, 2021. Fans can currently stream all episodes of Free! – Iwatobi Swim Club on Crunchyroll offers an accessible platform to immerse themselves in the series.