When it comes to the Fullmetal Alchemist franchise, two versions of the anime stand out: the original Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and its later adaptation, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009). Both series are based on Hiromu Arakawa’s manga, yet they follow distinct paths. While the first series diverges from the source material midway due to the manga still being in serialization, the second series, Brotherhood, stays true to the manga’s narrative. But despite these differences, both versions carry the essence of the story, with each offering unique interpretations of the core themes. The question is, how do these two adaptations compare?
The most obvious difference between the two adaptations is their approach to the plot.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original Fullmetal Alchemist series starts off following the manga closely but takes a significant turn around episode 25. This divergence occurs because, at that time, the manga had not been completed, and the anime creators chose to craft an original ending. As a result, the plot shifts toward a more philosophical, character-driven exploration of the Elric brothers’ journey. The world-building becomes darker, and the focus shifts to the Homunculi and their creation, leading to an entirely different narrative arc that sets this version apart from its successor. It’s a series about sacrifice, tragedy, and the toll of trying to play god, where the cost of the characters’ actions is portrayed in a much more somber, sometimes grim, light.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): In contrast, Brotherhood adheres much more faithfully to the original manga, following its events and themes precisely. The story is more expansive, offering greater exploration of the political intrigue within the state of Amestris, the depth of the Homunculi, and the ultimate purpose of the Philosopher’s Stone. The pacing is faster, and while the first half is more about world-building and setting up the final confrontation, the latter half dives deeper into the metaphysical aspects of the story. In Brotherhood, the plot progresses with clearer direction, ensuring a more cohesive journey toward the ultimate revelation and resolution.
In terms of plot, Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) is a more personal, isolated journey for the Elrics, while Brotherhood is an epic tale involving multiple factions, each with their own stakes in the fate of the world. Both narratives, though different, hold their own emotional weight.
Both versions share key characters, but the way they develop, interact, and ultimately change differs significantly.
Edward and Alphonse Elric: In both versions, Edward and Alphonse’s relationship is the emotional core of the story, but Brotherhood gives this bond more room to grow. Brotherhood explores their bond through more moments of light-heartedness, humor, and intimacy, offering a more balanced portrayal of their relationship. Edward’s pride and Alphonse’s innocence are given equal attention, and their growth as characters feels more natural, especially as they encounter and process their mistakes.
On the other hand, in Fullmetal Alchemist (2003), the tone is heavier, and the emotional stakes are higher from the beginning. The guilt and burden of their failed human transmutation constantly loom over them, making their struggles feel even more intense. Their interactions are often tinged with sorrow, as both brothers are wrestling with the cost of their actions, and the bond between them is tested by not only physical and emotional hardship but by existential questions about the nature of human existence.
Supporting Characters: Brotherhood allows more room to flesh out characters like Roy Mustang, Winry Rockbell, and Riza Hawkeye, who have expanded arcs. Mustang’s ambitions, Hawkeye’s loyalty, and Winry’s role in Edward’s journey are all explored with more nuance. In Fullmetal Alchemist (2003), some characters, such as Roy, take on a more tragic, complex persona, especially as the series explores the personal cost of war and the moral ambiguity of leadership. While Brotherhood portrays Roy as a more typical hero figure, the original series dives deeper into his emotional complexity and the consequences of his actions.
Both series explore deep themes such as the consequences of one’s actions, the quest for redemption, and the ethics of alchemy, but they do so in different ways.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original series takes a darker, more philosophical route. The nature of alchemy is questioned deeply, particularly the idea of “equivalent exchange.” The consequences of attempting to control or alter life through alchemy are explored in a somber, almost fatalistic manner. The idea of playing god, and the mistakes that arise from such attempts, is central to the series’ core. The characters’ journeys are filled with personal sacrifice, not just for the Elric brothers but for those around them as well. The philosophical questions about the nature of life and death, good and evil, are far more explicit here, and the answers are not always comforting or clear.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): Brotherhood still retains the series’ philosophical underpinnings but approaches them from a slightly more optimistic perspective. The concept of sacrifice and redemption is still central, but the series offers a more clear-cut answer to the Elrics’ journey. The characters find redemption not just in restoring their bodies but in learning about the true meaning of life and the price of their ambitions. In this version, while the brothers still make mistakes, there’s a stronger sense of hope and the possibility for positive change. The narrative itself embraces a grander, more heroic vision of redemption, allowing the characters to emerge victorious, albeit at a great cost.
From a visual perspective, both adaptations have their unique style and approach to animation.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original series has a more gritty, rough style, with darker colors and more muted tones. The animation quality is not as polished as Brotherhood, but it lends itself to the more somber, emotional nature of the story. The action sequences, though limited compared to Brotherhood, still stand out for their intensity and emotional weight.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): The animation in Brotherhood is cleaner, smoother, and more refined. The fight scenes are more dynamic, and the character designs are sharper and more consistent with the manga’s original art style. The overall aesthetic is more colorful and vibrant, aligning with the more action-packed tone of the series. This visual style is in line with the faster pacing and grander scale of Brotherhood, making it feel more like a high-energy adventure.
Both series culminate in dramatic, emotional endings, but the differences in their conclusions are stark.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The ending of the original series is more ambiguous and bittersweet. The resolution focuses more on the personal journey of the characters, particularly Edward and Alphonse, and their understanding of sacrifice, growth, and the consequences of their actions. The final moments are haunting, and while there is closure, it leaves a lingering sense of melancholy. The tone is more reflective, and the ending asks the audience to ponder the nature of life itself and the cost of achieving one’s dreams.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): Brotherhood provides a more definitive, optimistic conclusion. The characters’ struggles come to a satisfying conclusion, and the brothers achieve their goal, though not without sacrifice. The series ends on a note of hope, with the characters finding peace, and the ultimate resolution of the central mysteries gives the audience a sense of catharsis. The ending is more traditional in the sense of being a “happy” conclusion, but it still maintains the emotional depth the series is known for.
In the end, the comparison between Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is not about which one is better but rather about appreciating each for its unique qualities. The original Fullmetal Alchemist is a darker, more personal exploration of sacrifice and consequence, while Brotherhood is a more expansive, action-packed, and ultimately optimistic adaptation. Both versions of the series are masterpieces in their own right, each bringing something valuable to the table.
Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. Do you prefer the philosophical depth and emotional weight of the original, or do you favor the more faithful, action-oriented narrative of Brotherhood? Regardless of the version you choose, one thing remains certain: Fullmetal Alchemist is a timeless story that will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
One of the central elements in both Fullmetal Alchemist adaptations is the portrayal of the Homunculi, the seven deadly sins that serve as the primary antagonists throughout the series. However, their role and how they are developed differs between the two versions.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): In the original series, the Homunculi are more ambiguous in their origins and motivations. Their actions are driven by a sense of purpose related to their creator, Father, but their individual personalities are more complex. For instance, characters like Lust and Gluttony are more tragic in the original version. Lust, in particular, isn’t just a representation of desire but a symbol of longing for something she cannot attain—redemption. Her complex relationship with the Elric brothers, especially Edward, reflects this. This tragic dimension is especially felt in the early episodes, where the Homunculi are more mysterious, and their backstories are developed with emotional depth.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): In Brotherhood, the Homunculi are portrayed more as the traditional embodiment of their respective sins, particularly in the beginning. They are seen less as tragic figures and more as obstacles the protagonists must overcome. Each sin is represented more literally, and their motivations are clearer. For example, Lust is portrayed more as an antagonistic force, with less emotional depth than in the original. However, as the series progresses, Brotherhood does give them moments of depth, especially with the character of Pride, who is a notable departure from the original series’ take on the sin. While both versions explore the philosophical elements of the Homunculi—such as the destructive nature of human flaws—Brotherhood keeps them firmly within the traditional narrative framework of good versus evil.
The depiction of the Homunculi in both series highlights the differences in tone and approach. In Fullmetal Alchemist (2003), the antagonists feel more personal, almost tragic, whereas in Brotherhood, they are part of a larger cosmic battle between forces of good and evil, contributing to the more action-oriented and heroic feel.
Both series heavily feature alchemy as a central plot device, but the nature and the significance of alchemy—and the Philosopher’s Stone in particular—are treated in unique ways across the two adaptations.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): Alchemy is presented not just as a science but as a deeply spiritual practice. The consequences of attempting to defy the natural order through human transmutation are explored in great depth. The Philosopher’s Stone, in particular, takes on a darker tone in the original series. It represents not just the potential to fix the Elric brothers’ mistakes, but also the dangers of seeking too much power. In Fullmetal Alchemist (2003), the Stone is linked to the tragic history of the country of Xerxes, and its creation is tied to dark, moral questions about sacrifice. The transmutation of souls and the resulting consequences speak to the series’ exploration of humanity’s limits and the cost of scientific advancement.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): In Brotherhood, the Philosopher’s Stone is still a powerful tool with the potential to restore the Elrics, but it is portrayed with a more direct narrative function. It is the key to unlocking the central mystery of the series: the nature of the Homunculi and Father’s ultimate plan. Alchemy, too, is depicted more in line with traditional science fiction, with the rules of alchemy being more rigid and less tied to philosophical or metaphysical musings. The alchemists in Brotherhood seem to work within the confines of a more structured system. The Philosopher’s Stone still holds immense significance, but its connection to the lives of the Elrics feels more like a personal quest rather than a larger philosophical commentary.
Both versions of alchemy reflect the worldviews of the two adaptations. Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) treats alchemy as a morally ambiguous force, questioning the ethical implications of its practice, while Brotherhood uses alchemy more as a tool to explore larger, grander narratives of heroism, political intrigue, and the battle between good and evil.
Another major difference between the two series is the overall tone and pacing.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original series tends to be slower-paced, with a greater focus on introspective moments and character development. It’s more of a philosophical journey than a fast-paced adventure, giving viewers time to reflect on the emotional stakes of the characters’ struggles. The slower pacing allows for deep emotional beats to land, especially during moments of loss and hardship. The darker tone is prevalent throughout the series, and even in the moments of joy, there is always an underlying sense of the tragic nature of the Elrics’ mission.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): On the other hand, Brotherhood has a much faster pacing, especially in its early episodes. The action scenes are more intense, and there is a greater sense of urgency in the characters’ quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone and restore their bodies. While the series still takes time for character moments and emotional growth, the stakes feel higher in Brotherhood, and the pacing never lets up for long. The series is designed to appeal to an audience that craves action and spectacle while still offering moments of introspection and emotional weight. The difference in pacing is especially evident in the contrast between the earlier episodes of both series, where Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) focuses more on character backstory and the moral implications of alchemy, while Brotherhood moves quickly into larger-scale battles and political intrigue.
Music is an essential part of any anime, and Fullmetal Alchemist is no exception. The soundtrack of both adaptations plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original series boasts an iconic, melancholic soundtrack, composed by Michiru Oshima. The music’s tone is often somber, mirroring the darker themes of the show. Tracks like “Brothers” and “Motherland” evoke a sense of loss and the weight of the brothers’ journey. The soundtrack complements the emotional depth of the series, often amplifying the feeling of sacrifice, regret, and the cost of the brothers’ actions.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): In contrast, Brotherhood has a more grandiose, epic soundtrack composed by Akira Senju. The music in Brotherhood is designed to heighten the excitement and intensity of the battles while still capturing the emotional stakes of the story. Tracks like “Rain” and “Period” are used to emphasize both the series’ action-packed sequences and its quieter, more reflective moments. The score complements the faster pacing of Brotherhood, providing the emotional highs and lows needed to match the more dynamic storytelling approach.
Ultimately, the legacy of Fullmetal Alchemist lies in how it has been embraced by anime fans worldwide. Both series have left an indelible mark on anime culture, but the question of which version stands the test of time is subjective.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original series, with its unique blend of tragedy, emotional depth, and philosophical inquiry, has a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate a more introspective narrative. It appeals to viewers who prefer a more personal, character-driven story with darker, more complex themes. The original anime’s ambiguous ending and its focus on the internal struggles of the characters give it a lasting impact that continues to resonate with viewers who crave nuanced storytelling.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): On the other hand, Brotherhood appeals to those who prefer a more action-oriented, fast-paced narrative with a sense of closure and resolution. Its faithfulness to the manga’s original ending and its expanded world-building make it the definitive adaptation for many fans. It is a grand adventure that balances humor, action, and emotional depth, offering a more satisfying and complete story arc, especially for those who are looking for a resolution to the mysteries of the Elric brothers’ world.
In conclusion, both Fullmetal Alchemist and Brotherhood offer valuable experiences, but they cater to different tastes and preferences. Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) is the darker, more contemplative story, while Brotherhood offers a more conventional, yet epic journey of adventure and discovery. Neither version can be seen as superior to the other—they are both masterpieces in their own right, and each appeals to different aspects of storytelling that make Fullmetal Alchemist one of the most beloved franchises in anime history.
One of the most significant themes explored in Fullmetal Alchemist is the deep philosophical questions regarding the nature of alchemy, life, death, and the moral consequences of manipulating these forces. Both versions approach these concepts, but with different tones and narrative devices.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original series delves deep into the philosophy of alchemy and its consequences. The idea of equivalent exchange—”to gain, something of equal value must be lost”—is a fundamental concept, and the show constantly questions this principle. The Elric brothers’ failed attempt at human transmutation (to bring their mother back to life) is symbolic of the tragic consequences of trying to defy natural laws. The show portrays the harsh reality of this cost—one that cannot be escaped. Alchemy is not a perfect science but a dangerous and morally ambiguous tool. The consequences are not just physical but spiritual, as many characters struggle with their own guilt and their desire for power. In Fullmetal Alchemist (2003), death is not just an event—it’s an inevitable part of the cycle of life, and alchemy’s power is both its greatest gift and its most destructive curse.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): Brotherhood approaches the philosophical nature of alchemy from a more structured and moralistic standpoint. Alchemy is still the backbone of the story, but the show focuses more on its potential for good rather than its inherent danger. The series still deals with the cost of manipulating life, particularly in the case of the Philosopher’s Stone, but the consequences of using such power are seen in a broader context. Alchemy is viewed as a tool that can be used to both heal and destroy, and its practitioners are challenged not only by the limitations of their power but by their responsibility to use it wisely. The ethical implications of alchemy and the pursuit of knowledge are still central themes, but Brotherhood emphasizes the idea of redemption and moral growth more explicitly. The idea that “equivalent exchange” does not have to be a life sentence but a lesson in responsibility is explored more openly in Brotherhood.
The philosophical underpinnings of both series offer insight into the human condition: the desire for power, the cost of mistakes, the redemption through sacrifice, and the realization that one cannot control life or death. However, while Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) remains steeped in a more tragic and somber view of alchemy’s nature, Brotherhood offers a more hopeful and heroic take on the role of knowledge and power in shaping one’s destiny.
Another key element explored in Fullmetal Alchemist is the nature of war, politics, and the moral ambiguity of those in power. Both adaptations look at the consequences of state-controlled power and the exploitation of resources, particularly in the context of Amestris.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original series presents a more nuanced, political landscape. Amestris, as a state, is steeped in corruption, and the military is depicted as a highly centralized, authoritarian force that exploits its citizens for its own gain. The corruption of those in power is a central theme, and the relationship between the state and its military is portrayed as one where moral lines are easily blurred. The show addresses the trauma of war, not just in terms of battle but also in terms of the psychological toll it takes on those who fight. The government’s role in the creation of the Homunculi is more explicitly connected to its desire to control the power of alchemy, and the entire system is built on secrecy, manipulation, and the exploitation of individuals for a greater purpose.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): Brotherhood takes a more expansive look at the political ramifications of Amestris’ government and its military, delving into the hidden conspiracies that shape the country. However, it does so with a bit more emphasis on the “good versus evil” struggle. The state alchemists, particularly Roy Mustang, are depicted more as “heroes in the making,” working to overthrow the corrupt government. The series is more explicit in its portrayal of the Amestrian military as an oppressive force that must be overthrown for the greater good. The political intrigue is present, but there’s less of the moral grayness that exists in Fullmetal Alchemist (2003). The plot moves more towards the idea of revolution, where the military and the Homunculi serve as clear antagonists that need to be stopped to free the people of Amestris from oppression.
In both series, the theme of war and power is explored, but Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) presents a more complex, morally ambiguous view of government and war, where good and evil are not always clear-cut, and the consequences of militarism are devastating. Brotherhood, while still exploring the trauma of war, focuses more on the idea of revolution and the fight against oppressive systems.
Roy Mustang, the Flame Alchemist, is a central figure in both adaptations, and his character arc provides some of the most significant emotional development in both versions of Fullmetal Alchemist. However, his role and the way he is portrayed differ greatly between the two series.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): In the original series, Roy Mustang is a far more complex character. His motivations are rooted in his desire for power, but his ambition is driven by a personal need for revenge against those who have wronged him, particularly those in power within the Amestrian military. His relationship with Riza Hawkeye and the emotional depth of his backstory are explored in greater detail. The tragic loss he faces, as well as his internal struggles with the morality of his ambitions, make him a character that reflects the series’ darker tone. His goal of becoming the Führer is driven not only by a desire for political power but also by his own need for redemption and the healing of his past trauma. His character arc is much more introspective and often struggles with his darker impulses.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): In Brotherhood, Roy Mustang is portrayed as a more traditional “heroic” figure. His goal of becoming the Führer is still present, but it is more idealistic and less personally driven by vengeance. Instead, his focus is on reforming Amestris from within, using his position to fight for the people and overthrow the corrupt government. The tragic events in his past, such as the loss of his best friend, are still present, but they are not as deeply explored. Instead, Roy is shown as a charismatic leader with a clear moral compass. His relationship with Riza is still a major part of his character arc, but in Brotherhood, their bond is more straightforward and serves as a foundation for his heroism.
In Fullmetal Alchemist (2003), Roy Mustang is portrayed as a morally complex and deeply flawed individual, making him a more tragic and relatable figure. In Brotherhood, he is more of a heroic figure who is motivated by justice, making him a symbol of the idealistic fight against tyranny.
Winry Rockbell, the mechanic and childhood friend of the Elric brothers, plays a vital role in both versions of Fullmetal Alchemist. However, her portrayal differs significantly between the two adaptations.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): In the original series, Winry’s role is less focused on romance and more on the emotional and psychological toll that the brothers’ journey has on her. Her feelings for Edward are present but secondary to her role as a caretaker and a symbol of the human cost of the brothers’ quest. Winry’s character arc is deeply connected to the themes of loss and healing. She not only repairs the brothers’ automail but also becomes a symbol of emotional support and the person who helps them understand that they are not alone. Her strength lies in her resilience and her ability to understand the pain of others, particularly the brothers, and provide them with the care they need to continue on their journey.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): In Brotherhood, Winry’s character is more prominently featured as a love interest for Edward. While her role as the Elrics’ mechanic remains, her development is less about emotional growth and more about her involvement in the action and adventure of the plot. Her feelings for Edward are explored more openly, and her moments of emotional support are emphasized in a more traditional romantic sense. However, her relationship with the brothers remains an important aspect of the story, and her bravery and strength shine through, especially in her involvement with the larger conflicts.
In both versions, Winry is crucial to the Elrics’ journey, but her role in the original series is more rooted in emotional depth and caregiving, whereas in Brotherhood, she serves as a more traditional support character with a clear romantic subplot.
It’s impossible to discuss Fullmetal Alchemist without acknowledging the long-lasting impact both adaptations have had on the anime community and pop culture at large. Since the release of Fullmetal Alchemist in 2003 and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood in 2009, the franchise has garnered an immense global following. Both adaptations have made significant cultural marks, influencing not just anime but storytelling in general.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The original series was groundbreaking in its time, offering a deep,
The soundtrack of Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) is one of the most memorable and emotionally potent aspects of the series. Composed by Michiru Ōshima, the music in the original series blends symphonic, orchestral arrangements with rock and electronic elements, creating a diverse and dynamic atmosphere that complements the varying tones of the story.
Diversity of Genres: The score of Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) blends many different genres, which allows it to transition smoothly between the series’ emotional and action-packed moments. The hauntingly beautiful pieces such as “Brothers” and “The Shape of the Heart” evoke deep feelings of sadness, loss, and hope, while tracks like “Ready, Steady, Go!” and “Rewrite” are energetic and fast-paced, mirroring the urgency of the brothers’ quest.
Symphonic Influence: Many of the most iconic themes, such as “Tobira no Mukou e” (the opening song for the first 51 episodes), draw inspiration from classical symphonic compositions. This gives the series an air of grandeur and gravitas, enhancing its philosophical themes about life, death, and the cost of alchemy. The music reinforces the emotional depth of the characters’ struggles and their internal conflicts.
Rock Influence: As the series incorporates elements of action and adventure, certain tracks, particularly the opening and ending themes, reflect a more modern and energetic rock style. Songs like “Ready, Steady, Go!” (the opening song for the first 51 episodes) bring a youthful and rebellious energy to the show, aligning well with the themes of fighting against the establishment and discovering one’s own path.
Emotional Impact: The overall atmosphere created by the music enhances the emotional weight of the series. The music helps reinforce the tragic elements of the plot, especially in moments of sacrifice and loss. Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) is known for its intense emotional moments, and the music heightens these experiences. The recurring motifs throughout the score create a sense of thematic cohesion, as each track relates to the series’ core themes of loss, redemption, and the search for truth.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood features an entirely different soundtrack, composed by Akira Senju. While Brotherhood retains the same thematic and emotional weight as the original, its soundtrack is tailored to match the show’s slightly different tone and structure. It is characterized by grandiose orchestral compositions and an overall more epic sound.
Orchestral Focus: While Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) mixed various styles, Brotherhood‘s soundtrack is more heavily focused on orchestral arrangements, giving it a more classical and cinematic feel. Tracks like “Hagane no Kokoro” and “Brothers” (which also appears in Fullmetal Alchemist but with different orchestration) create a sense of solemnity and grandeur that complements the more heroic and larger-scale storylines present in Brotherhood. The music evokes a sense of rising action and destiny, underscoring the Elric brothers’ journey toward redemption.
Darker and Lighter Themes: Much like the narrative, the music in Brotherhood alternates between darker, more intense tracks during the series’ more emotional moments (such as “Rain”) and lighter, more hopeful themes when the characters experience moments of growth or triumph. The battle themes are also more grandiose and epic, with tracks like “Battle Between Father and Son” intensifying the stakes during major fights.
Use of Motifs: Brotherhood makes heavy use of recurring musical motifs. These motifs, often associated with specific characters or themes, are used to reinforce the emotional connections between scenes and create a sense of continuity throughout the series. The motifs of “The Promised Day” and “Reunion” bring a sense of anticipation and a build-up toward the series’ climactic events, while “The First Day” and “The Real Truth” underscore the discovery of deep, existential truths about the world and the brothers’ quest.
Emotional Themes: The soundtrack also heightens the emotional connection between the viewer and the characters. In Brotherhood, music plays an essential role in reinforcing themes of hope, sacrifice, and the bond between the Elric brothers. The final battle music is particularly notable for its soaring, epic feel, giving the final moments a sense of grand closure. The way the soundtrack ties together the brothers’ journey from despair to redemption adds a layer of emotional intensity to the conclusion.
Both Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood have iconic opening and ending themes that set the tone for the show and further emphasize the series’ emotional weight.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The opening theme, “Melissa” by Porno Graffitti, sets the stage for the series with its dynamic energy and upbeat tempo. It encapsulates the youthful determination of the Elric brothers as they embark on their quest. The ending theme, “Kesenai Tsumi” by Nana Kitade, is a hauntingly beautiful song that captures the underlying sadness and the weight of the brothers’ journey. It contrasts sharply with the upbeat nature of the opening and highlights the underlying tragedy of the story.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): The opening theme “Again” by YUI is an anthem of hope and determination, perfectly reflecting the optimism of the Brotherhood adaptation. It encapsulates the idea of starting over and finding strength in the face of adversity. The ending theme “Uso” by Sid, which plays during the end of the first season, is deeply emotional, with lyrics that speak to themes of truth, lies, and the hidden realities of the world.
Both series use their music not only to reflect the mood of the episodes but to establish a deeper emotional connection with the audience. These themes are an integral part of what makes both versions of Fullmetal Alchemist so emotionally resonant and memorable.
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): The sound design in Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) is integral to creating an immersive experience. The use of sound effects, such as the clanking of automail, the explosion of alchemical reactions, and the eerie noise of the Homunculi, all contribute to the atmosphere of the series. The voice acting, both in the Japanese and English versions, is highly praised for its emotional depth, with characters such as Edward and Alphonse Elric delivering lines with raw emotion that mirrors the series’ dark themes.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): The sound design in Brotherhood takes a more cinematic approach, with sweeping orchestral sounds paired with intense sound effects to match the epic nature of the story. The voice acting is also strong, with the English dub being particularly praised for its consistency and emotional resonance. Characters like Roy Mustang and Riza Hawkeye are portrayed with a sense of gravitas, and the more heroic tone of Brotherhood is complemented by a voice cast that brings a sense of hope and determination to their performances.
In both Fullmetal Alchemist and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, music plays a pivotal role in shaping the series’ tone and emotional impact. While the two series feature different musical styles—Fullmetal Alchemist using a blend of orchestral, rock, and electronic music and Brotherhood opting for a more orchestral and cinematic feel—the soundtracks of both are equally effective in conveying the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys.
The music not only complements the narrative but amplifies it, making key moments of triumph and tragedy even more powerful. Whether it’s the haunting melodies of Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) or the epic orchestral themes of Brotherhood, the music in both adaptations remains a cornerstone of the series’ lasting legacy in anime history.
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