Free Willy.

Name: Free Willy
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family
Released: 1993-07-16
Duration: 111 min
Cast: Jason James Richter, Lori Petty, Jayne Atkinson, Michael Madsen, Michael Ironside

A friendship too large for a small tank.

Jesse, a troubled boy in foster care, forms a bond with an orca at a marine park. When he learns that the whale's owners have dangerous plans, he tries to return his friend to the ocean.

71%Tomatometer31 critics · Rotten Tomatoes

Checked Oct 19, 2026. About these scores

View film information

Why it’s a little special

The connection between two isolated characters gives the animal-rescue adventure its emotional force.

BEFORE YOU PRESS PLAY

Know the story.
Know your little people.

Parental guidance suggested

US film rating

Animal captivity and cruelty, a plot to kill a whale, abandonment and family conflict. Includes mild language and tense rescue scenes.

Our notes are a starting point, not an age recommendation. G and PG films can still include intense moments. You know your family best.

BEHIND THE SCENES

The little details.

Directed by: Simon Wincer
Starring: Jason James Richter, Lori Petty, Jayne Atkinson, Michael Madsen, Michael Ironside, Richard Riehle, August Schellenberg, Mykel T. Williamson, Michael Bacall
Written by: Keith Walker, Corey Blechman
Produced by: Jennie Lew Tugend, Lauren Schuler Donner, Arnon Milchan, Richard Donner
Release date: July 16, 1993
Runtime: 111 minutes
Genre: Adventure, Drama, Family
Studio: Warner Bros.
Language: English

LIGHTS DOWN. SNACKS READY.

Where to watch.

Find a spot on the sofa. Pick your service.

All viewing options

No subscription or free streaming option was listed in our US check on Oct 19, 2026. Check all viewing options for current streaming, rental, and purchase listings on JustWatch.