Mini Anime Review - Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood

My all time highest held anime is a constant battle between Gurren Lagaan and this piece of art, that is Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood; finally I think I have made my choice. Taking place in the state of Amestris in an amazing world where the magical skill of alchemy, a scientific art based upon the ideal of equivalent exchange, is used by many military powerhouses, and all serve the Führer King Bradly. This is a world of monsters, science, robot prosthetic limbs and conspiracy.

Our story follows the life of the young Elric brothers, and their never ending series of misfortunes and strife caused by alchemy and the betrayal of those around them. 

After the death of their mother the boys attempted to revive her using alchemy, a taboo for all who know the craft. This attempt showed both the secrets of alchemy, however the God of Truth in exchange takes Alphonse's entire body and Ed's leg. In order to prevent Al's death, Ed sacrifices his arm to bind Al to a suit of armor eternally. 


The titular Full Metal Alchemist is the older of the two brothers, Edward. He is a headstrong, hot headed young man and is easily annoyed, especially when making reference to his short height. However over the 64 episodes we know him the foolishness almost entirely goes with amazing speed. You never find him annoying, In my opinion, as you tend to always see his point of view, and he never acts selfishly, even when the selfish option may regain his missing limbs.

His younger brother Alphonse is still searching for a way to return to his body, however does not complain too much, which makes this anime's characters stand out, none are very bitchy; bad shit happens to every character at some point, and they just get on with it.  His growth as a person is massive in the later half of the show, and this allows you to truly appreciate his terrible life in this state.

There are no characters in this master piece that annoy you, from the adorable May Chang, to the bombastic Armstrong family, everyone bounces well off each other and you feel true emotions with the situations they face each and every episode.
My particular stand-outs are the wonderful Major Hughes and Ling Yao, for their excellent character designs, development and great voice acting.

This shows visuals are stunning, it's openings are amazing (apart from 2 which is average) and i have never spent so much time on a single anime listening to the soundtrack. The first opening may be my favorite anime opening of all time. 

Both the English dub and the Japanese are stellar, however I personally prefer the English version, due to the cast being near spotless.



Rating - 
Looks - 5/5
Sound -4.5/5
Plot - 5/5
Characters - 5/5
Overall - 19.5/20