The movie Free Willy, centered on a boy befriending an orca whale, was released in theaters across the United States.
Following Free Willy's success, public interest and awareness regarding orca whales and marine conservation significantly increased.
The sequel to Free Willy was released, continuing the story of Jesse and the orca whale Willy.
The third installment of the Free Willy series was released, featuring new adventures of the characters.