What is it: Free! – Take Your Marks
Free! – Take Your Marks is a Japanese animated film that is part of the popular anime series Free!, known for its themes centered on swimming and the friendship between young swimmers. Released in 2017, the film is a direct sequel to Free! – Timeless Medley and serves as an epilogue to the events of the anime's second season, Free! – Eternal Summer. The story is divided into four segments, each focusing on different characters and their respective journeys after high school graduation. The film is a production by Kyoto Animation, renowned for its animation quality and attention to detail, making Free! – Take Your Marks a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience.
The first segment, titled "Unmei no Choice!", follows Haruka Nanase as he prepares to move to Tokyo to attend university. Haruka faces the difficult decision of choosing a new place to live, and the story explores his anxieties and expectations for the future. This segment is particularly meaningful, as it showcases Haruka's personal growth and his determination to pursue his passion for swimming despite the uncertainties that await him. The narrative is enriched with moments of humor and camaraderie, highlighting the strong friendship between the main characters.
In the second segment, "Hitou no Cooling Down!", Makoto Tachibana, Haruka's longtime friend, is preparing to begin his new life as a swimming coach in Tokyo. This segment focuses on Makoto's transition from swimmer to coach and the challenges he faces in taking on this new responsibility. The story also explores Makoto's relationship with his new students and how he applies the lessons he's learned over the years to inspire the next generation of swimmers. The narrative is a testament to Makoto's growth as a character and his dedication to helping others achieve their dreams.
The third segment, "Kessoku no Butterfly!", follows Nagisa Hazuki and Rei Ryugazaki as they attempt to recruit new members for the Iwatobi High School swim club. With Haruka and Makoto graduating, the club needs new talent to continue competing. This segment is full of comedic and heartwarming moments as Nagisa and Rei face various obstacles in their quest to find new members. The story highlights the importance of teamwork and perseverance, showing how Nagisa and Rei grow as leaders and friends along the way.
The fourth and final segment, "Tabidachi no Eternal Blue!", brings all the main characters together for one final swimming competition before they go their separate ways. This segment is a celebration of the friendship and competitive spirit that defines the Free! series. The narrative is filled with heartwarming and nostalgic moments as the characters reflect on their journeys and prepare for the future. The high-quality animation and captivating soundtrack contribute to the emotional atmosphere of the segment, making it a fitting end to the film and a moving farewell for fans of the series.
Free! – Take Your Marks is more than just an anime film; it's a deep exploration of themes of friendship, personal growth, and the pursuit of dreams. Each segment offers a unique insight into the characters and their respective journeys, providing a rich and multifaceted experience for viewers. Kyoto Animation's production ensures that every scene is visually stunning, while the well-crafted narrative keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. For Free! fans, this film is an essential addition to the series, offering a satisfying conclusion to the stories of the beloved characters.
