Free! Eternal Summer [Season 2 Episodes 1-13]

Free! Eternal Summer: A Dive into Friendship, Growth, and the Love of Swimming

When Free! Eternal Summer first aired in 2014, it wasn’t just another sports anime—it was a celebration of friendship, personal growth, and the sheer joy of swimming. Directed by Hiroko Utsumi and produced by Kyoto Animation and Animation Do, this second season of Free! took the beloved Iwatobi Swim Club to new emotional depths while keeping the lighthearted charm that made the first season so addictive.

The Plot: More Than Just Swimming

The season kicks off with the Iwatobi Swim Club facing a crisis: they need new members to avoid disbandment. But as Haruka Nanase, Makoto Tachibana, Nagisa Hazuki, and Rei Ryuugazaki navigate their senior year, the story quickly shifts from club survival to personal struggles. Haru, in particular, grapples with the pressure of competitive swimming, leading to a rift with Makoto—a conflict that fans found both heartbreaking and relatable.

One of the standout arcs of the season is Haru’s trip to Australia with Rin Matsuoka (Episode 12). This episode, packed with stunning scenery and unexpected humor, became a fan favorite. Rin’s past in Australia is explored, and his efforts to reignite Haru’s passion for swimming are touching. Fans couldn’t get enough of the duo’s dynamic, especially the infamous “one bed” moment that sparked endless fan theories and fanart.

Fan Reactions: The Good, The Bad, and The Bromance

Digging into fan discussions, it’s clear that Free! Eternal Summer struck a chord with its audience—though not without some divisive moments.

• The Bromance: The Haru-Rin relationship was a major talking point. Many fans loved their emotional reunion in Australia, with one user gushing, “Rin and Haru bring out the best in each other. Their friendship is the heart of the show.” The “one bed” scene, in particular, became iconic, with fans joking about the inevitable flood of fanfiction it inspired.

• The English Debate: The episode’s heavy use of English dialogue (complete with Australian accents) was a bold move. Some fans praised the authenticity, saying, “Finally, an anime where foreigners don’t magically speak Japanese!” Others, however, cringed at Rin’s “engrish,” though many admitted it had its own charm.

• Haru’s Character Arc: Haru’s sudden decision to pursue competitive swimming after his Australia trip divided fans. Some felt it was rushed (“He went from ‘I hate pressure’ to ‘I want to swim professionally’ way too fast!”), while others argued it was a natural progression (“He always loved swimming—he just needed to remember why.”).

• The Emotional Weight: The season’s heavier tone compared to the first was both praised and criticized. Some fans missed the carefree vibe of Season 1, while others appreciated the deeper character development. One fan summed it up perfectly: “This season made me cry, laugh, and scream at my screen. That’s how you know it’s good.”

Why It Works

At its core, Free! Eternal Summer is about finding your passion and the people who push you forward. The animation, as expected from Kyoto Animation, is breathtaking—whether it’s the shimmering water during races or the quiet moments between characters. The soundtrack, too, enhances every emotional beat, making even the simplest scenes feel impactful.

But what truly sets this season apart is its willingness to explore vulnerability. Haru’s struggle with expectations, Rin’s guilt over past actions, and Makoto’s quiet support all feel real. As one fan put it, “This isn’t just a show about swimming—it’s about growing up and figuring out who you are.”

Final Thoughts

Free! Eternal Summer isn’t perfect—some plot points could’ve used more development, and not every emotional beat lands perfectly. But its strengths far outweigh its flaws. The characters feel like old friends, the races are exhilarating, and the emotional payoff is worth every minute.

If you’re looking for an anime that blends sports, friendship, and personal growth with stunning visuals and a killer soundtrack, Free! Eternal Summer is a must-watch. Just be prepared for the inevitable post-series emptiness—because once you dive into this world, you won’t want to leave.

Rating: 9/10 – A summer worth reliving.