Art: 9- The animation and style of the show was very well done! The animation of the water and point of view from the swimmers was beautifully depicted, giving a very life like feel. The art of the actual characters was well done, of course each of the male characters was given well sculpted swimmers body.
Sound: 9- I thought the music was well matched in each scene. Besides being well matched there was a large variety of music played throughout the sound track of the show, which helped it from feeling repetitive.
Characters: 9- All though there was only 12 episodes the writers did a wonderful job developing the personalty and back story of each character. I found the group as a whole to be comical and engaging and work well together. As the series progresses we see much emphasis placed on the bonds of friendship, a more than subtle underlying theme.
Enjoyment: 9- I highly enjoyed Free! and would recommend it. All though the genre is a bit different from what I normally watch I am very glad I gave it a chance. I am excited to see how the second season will play out as well!
Overall: 9- Overall Free! was a great series. I know it has been addressed that many people will overlook this because it 'looks gay'. However yaoi is never implied, it is merely the story of a close developing friendship between the members of the Iwatobi Swim Club.
