This first part of the final installment of the Free! series was really enjoyable! It was so exciting to see the cast of characters again. To see what they are doing career and school-wise, and also to see them interacting as friends once more. From the characters hanging out in college and professional swimming competitions to those still in Iwatobi and Samezuka high schools. I was so satisfied throughout by how each character and each friendship got some screen time. The story jumped around a lot from person to person, feeling kind of like a TV episode, keeping you invested. I was invested in how theboys' lives were progressing (especially with how Haru and Rin were faring in their ongoing swimming careers) the whole time. It all felt very natural and engaging. There was a good mix of happy, funny, heartfelt, and serious and contemplative tones (staying true to it being a slice of life anime).

The movie ended on a more dramatic note with a plot point that I assume will be sorted out in part 2.

The animation was pretty nice. Nothing crazy but they did do some short, artsy sequences. And I thought the backgrounds and colors were especially beautiful as always with Free!