A must watch manga anime “Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood”
Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood can expect a complex and well-developed story, memorable characters, and stunning animation. Both series are based on the manga of the same name by Hiromu Arakawa, and they follow the journey of the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, as they try to restore their bodies after a failed human transmutation experiment.
Fullmetal Alchemist
Fullmetal Alchemist is a popular Japanese manga and anime series created by Hiromu Arakawa. It was serialized in Monthly Shonen Gangan magazine from 2001 to 2010 and has since become one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed series in the genre.
The story is set in a fictional world where alchemy is a widely practiced science. The central protagonists are Edward and Alphonse Elric, two brothers who use alchemy in an attempt to bring their deceased mother back to life. However, their forbidden act of human transmutation goes wrong, resulting in Edward losing his left leg and Alphonse losing his entire body. In a desperate attempt to save his brother, Edward sacrifices his right arm to bind Alphonse’s soul to a suit of armor.
The series follows the Elric brothers as they search for the Philosopher’s Stone, a legendary artifact that is said to amplify alchemical power and potentially restore their bodies. Their journey takes them through a complex and politically charged world, where they encounter a diverse cast of characters, uncover dark secrets, and confront the consequences of their actions.
Fullmetal Alchemist explores themes such as the value of human life, the consequences of scientific advancement, the nature of power and corruption, and the importance of sacrifice. It blends elements of drama, action, adventure, and fantasy, and features a well-developed plot, memorable characters, and intricate world-building.
The manga series was adapted into two anime adaptations: “Fullmetal Alchemist” (2003) and “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” (2009-2010). The 2003 adaptation, simply titled “Fullmetal Alchemist,” deviated from the original manga storyline and had an anime-original ending. “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” followed the manga more faithfully and provided a complete adaptation of the story.
In addition to the manga and anime, Fullmetal Alchemist has also spawned animated films, video games, light novels, and other merchandise. It continues to be highly regarded by fans and critics alike for its compelling narrative, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a popular anime series that was released in 2009 and is based on the manga of the same name by Hiromu Arakawa. The story follows the adventures of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who are alchemists in a fictional world where alchemy is a widely practiced science.
The story takes place in a parallel universe where the brothers’ mother died when they were young, and their father, Hohenheim, left them to search for the Philosopher’s Stone, a powerful artifact that can grant any alchemist’s wish. In their quest to find their father and the Philosopher’s Stone, the Elric brothers become embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue, war, and mysticism.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is known for its deep characters, intricate plotlines, and philosophical themes. It explores topics such as the nature of the soul, the meaning of life, and the consequences of playing God with alchemy. The series also features a diverse cast of characters, including other state alchemists, military officers, and people from all walks of life who are affected by the brothers’ journey.
One of the unique aspects of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is its use of real-world alchemical concepts and symbols, which adds depth and complexity to the story. The series also has a distinctive art style, with vibrant colors, detailed backgrounds, and expressive character designs.
The show consists of 64 episodes, each lasting around 23 minutes. It was produced by Bones Studio and directed by Yasuhiro Irie, who also worked on other notable anime series like Soul Eater and My Hero Academia. The show was well received by critics and audiences alike, and it won several awards, including the Animage Anime Grand Prix award in 2010.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a thought-provoking and entertaining anime series that explores complex themes and ideas while still delivering an engaging story with memorable characters.
What should the fan expect on Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood?
- A complex and well-developed story: Both series explore complex themes such as the nature of humanity, the price of knowledge, and the consequences of playing God. The story is also full of twists and turns, and it keeps viewers guessing until the very end.
- Memorable characters: The cast of Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is one of the most memorable in anime. Edward and Alphonse Elric are two of the most iconic anime protagonists of all time, and the supporting cast is just as well-developed.
- Stunning animation: Both series feature high-quality animation, with fluid action sequences and beautiful character designs. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is particularly impressive in its use of animation, and it is one of the most visually appealing anime series ever made.
In addition to these things, fans can also expect to laugh, cry, and be moved by Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Both series are emotional roller coasters, and they are sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003):
- A more emotional and personal story than Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.
- A more original ending, which some fans prefer and some fans don’t.
- A slightly darker tone and more mature themes than Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009):
- A more faithful adaptation of the manga.
- A more epic and action-packed story than Fullmetal Alchemist.
- A more satisfying conclusion to the story.
What is the difference between Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist (FMA) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (FMAB) are two different adaptations of the same manga series written by Hiromu Arakawa. While both share the same basic premise and characters, there are significant differences between the two in terms of storytelling, pacing, and overall tone.
7 Facts between FMA and FMAB:
- Storytelling: The original FMA anime series deviates significantly from the manga source material, creating its own unique storyline and characters. FMAB, on the other hand, is a more faithful adaptation of the manga and follows the original story closely.
- Pacing: FMA has a faster pace than FMAB, covering more ground in fewer episodes. This means that certain plot points and character developments are glossed over or omitted entirely in the earlier series. Conversely, FMAB has a slower pace, allowing for more detailed explanations and character moments.
- Tone: FMA has a more lighthearted and comedic tone, often using humor to balance out the darker elements of the story. FMAB maintains a consistent darker and more serious tone throughout, delving deeper into the psychological and emotional struggles of the characters.
- Character development: Both series focus on the relationship between the Elric brothers, but FMAB provides more depth and nuance to the supporting characters, particularly the homunculi and Colonel Mustang. Additionally, FMAB introduces new characters and plot threads not present in the first series.
- Animation quality: FMAB boasts superior animation and production values compared to the older series, taking advantage of advancements in technology and studio resources.
- Themes: While both series explore themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the consequences of power, FMAB dives deeper into these themes and adds new layers through its expanded story and character arcs.
- Ending: The conclusions of the two series differ significantly. FMA ends on a hopeful note, with the Elric brothers achieving their goal but at a great cost. FMAB, on the other hand, offers a more bittersweet ending, with the protagonists coming to terms with their actions and the consequences of their choices.
If you prefer a more faithful adaptation of the manga, a slower pace, and a darker, more serious tone, then Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood might be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a more fast-paced, action-packed, and humorous take on the story, then the original Fullmetal Alchemist series could be your preference.
Fast Reviews:
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003):
- This adaptation was created while the original manga was still ongoing, so it deviates from the manga’s storyline.
- It has a darker and more introspective tone compared to “Brotherhood.”
- The first half of the series follows the manga’s plot, but it diverges significantly in the latter half.
- The ending of the 2003 version is unique to the anime and provides closure to its altered storyline.
- Some viewers appreciate the character development and emotional depth found in this adaptation.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood:
- This adaptation closely follows the original manga’s storyline, providing a faithful and complete adaptation.
- It has a faster pacing and a more action-oriented focus compared to the 2003 version.
- The animation quality and production values are generally considered higher.
- The story explores more of the manga’s plotlines, characters, and world-building elements.
- The ending of “Brotherhood” is in line with the manga and is often praised for its satisfying conclusion.
