Yes, "Free Willy" is based on a true story. The film is inspired by the real-life experiences of Keiko, a captive orca whale. Keiko was captured in the wild in the 1970s and spent years performing in marine parks before efforts were made to rehabilitate and release him back into the wild. The movie highlights themes of friendship, freedom, and conservation, reflecting Keiko's journey and the challenges faced by captive orcas. Keiko was eventually released into the ocean in 2002, although he struggled to adapt to wild life.

As of my last knowledge update in October 2023, "Free Willy" is not typically available on Netflix. Streaming availability can vary by region and may change over time, so it's best to check directly on Netflix or use a streaming search service to see if it has been added recently. You might also find it available for rent or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, or iTunes.

After filming "Free Willy," the orca whale Keiko was released into the wild in 2002, following a rehabilitation program aimed at teaching him survival skills. Initially, he struggled to adapt and was often found near human activity. Eventually, he learned to hunt and formed associations with wild orcas. However, he never fully integrated into a wild pod. Keiko died in 2003 from pneumonia in Norway, but his story raised awareness about the captivity of marine animals and the need for conservation efforts.

The "Free Willy" franchise consists of a total of four films. The original movie, "Free Willy," was released in 1993, followed by "Free Willy 2: The Adventure Home" in 1995, "Free Willy 3: The Rescue" in 1997, and "Free Willy: Escape from Pirate's Cove" in 2010, which is a direct-to-video release. The series follows the adventures of a young boy and his bond with a captive orca named Willy.