Kyoto Animation has revealed the title and release dates for the upcoming two-part Free! The Final Stroke film. The release date and film title reveal have arrived in time for the 8th anniversary of the Free! series through a YouTube video premiered on Kyoto Animation’s official channel. The first half of the film will premiere in Japan on September 17, 2021, and the second half will release April 22, 2022. [Thanks, ryokutya837!]
Free! The Final Stroke will be split into two parts, with Eisaku Kawanami returning to direct both films. Kawanami previously directed the Free! Timeless Medley films, as well as the third season of the series Free! Dive to the Future. Additionally, Nobunaga Shimazaki will be reprising the role of the protagonist Haruka Nanase. The official website was also updated with all of the relevant information.
This two-part movie serves as the final chapter of the entire series. Originally planned for a 2020 release alongside the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the film was ultimately delayed after the postponement of the Olympics. There is currently no information on whether the films will be shown abroad or distributed digitally.
Finally, tickets for the first part will be available in Japan starting May 28, 2021, and will cost ¥1,500 (approx. $13). Early ticket purchases will also come with a limited edition clear file and movie ticket card, shown below:
You can also check out the official announcement trailer here:
The first half of Free! The Final Stroke will premiere on September 17, 2021, and the second half will premiere on April 22, 2022. The first three seasons of the anime are immediately available via online streaming services.
