Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Original Run: April 5, 2009 – July 4, 2010 | 64 Episodes | Studio: Bones | Creator: Hiromu Arakawa
⚗️ ALCHEMY • 👬 BROTHERHOOD • ⚖️ EQUIVALENT EXCHANGE • 🏛️ POLITICS • 👥 PHILOSOPHY • 💥 ACTION
Edward & Alphonse Elric • State Alchemists • Homunculi • Philosopher's Stone • Amestris • Ishval
The Alchemical Masterpiece
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood represents the rare convergence of commercial success, critical acclaim, and artistic integrity in anime. Unlike its 2003 predecessor which diverged from the manga, Brotherhood faithfully adapts Hiromu Arakawa's complete vision with breathtaking animation, masterful pacing, and emotional depth. The series begins with the Elric brothers' tragic attempt to resurrect their mother using alchemy—a violation of the fundamental law against human transmutation that costs Edward his left leg and Alphonse his entire body. Edward sacrifices his right arm to bind Alphonse's soul to a suit of armor, and thus begins their journey to find the Philosopher's Stone, a legendary artifact that could restore what they've lost. What unfolds is an epic narrative spanning military coups, ancient conspiracies, philosophical debates, and the very nature of humanity itself.
The Ouroboros symbol, representing the cyclical nature of alchemy and the Homunculi
Created by Hiromu Arakawa and published in Monthly Shōnen Gangan from 2001 to 2010, the Fullmetal Alchemist manga sold over 80 million copies worldwide. Brotherhood's 2009 adaptation by Studio Bones was positioned as the definitive version, beginning with faster pacing through early manga content already covered in the 2003 anime, then continuing through the complete story. Directed by Yasuhiro Irie with series composition by Hiroshi Ōnogi, Brotherhood maintains a consistent tone of hope amidst darkness, balancing intense action sequences with quiet character moments. The legendary score by Akira Senju complements every emotional beat, from the haunting "Trisha's Lullaby" to the triumphant "Battle of Ishval." With its English dub considered among the best in anime history and a visual style that has aged beautifully, Brotherhood remains accessible to newcomers while rewarding rewatches with its meticulous foreshadowing and layered themes.
The Law of Equivalent Exchange
"To obtain, something of equal value must be lost." — The First Law of Alchemy
Series Specifications
Brotherhood's technical excellence and narrative precision set new standards for anime adaptation.
Alchemical Principles
The Three Laws of Alchemy:
1. Equivalent Exchange: To create, something of equal value must be lost.
2. Natural Providence: An object can only be created from materials with similar composition.
3. The Law of Natural Providence: Understanding, deconstruction, and reconstruction of matter.
Alchemy in FMA combines scientific principles with mystical symbolism
Comparison: Brotherhood vs 2003 Adaptation
While both adaptations have merit, Brotherhood's fidelity to the manga creates a more cohesive narrative.
| Aspect | Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood | Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) |
|---|---|---|
| Source Material | Complete manga adaptation (chapters 1-108) | Diverges after episode 25, original ending |
| Episodes | 64 | 51 + movie (Conqueror of Shamballa) |
| Tone | Hopeful, epic, consistent with manga | Darker, more philosophical, anime-original |
| Pacing | Faster start, then measured progression | Slower character development early on |
| Homunculi Origin | Created from Philosopher's Stones | Failed human transmutations |
| Ending | Satisfying conclusion to all storylines | Bittersweet, leads into movie |
| Critical Reception | Highest-rated anime of all time | Highly acclaimed, different interpretation |
What makes Brotherhood narratively unique is its masterful balance of episodic adventures with an overarching conspiracy. Unlike typical shōnen anime that prolong conflicts unnecessarily, Brotherhood maintains relentless forward momentum while developing its immense cast. The political landscape of Amestris—a militaristic nation with a secret history—unfolds gradually, revealing connections between State Alchemists, the Homunculi, and a 400-year-old plot. The series excels at "show, don't tell" storytelling: character motivations are revealed through actions, world-building through environmental details, and themes through narrative parallels. Brotherhood's alchemy system, with its scientific pretensions and clear limitations, provides both spectacular action sequences and philosophical framework. The series never uses power escalation as a crutch; instead, conflicts are resolved through intelligence, sacrifice, and understanding—true to its central theme of equivalent exchange.
Critical Reception and Ratings
Brotherhood's universal acclaim reflects its mastery of storytelling fundamentals and emotional resonance.
STATE ALCHEMIST: FLAME
ROY MUSTANG • IGNITION CLOTH • OXYGEN MANIPULATION • 2000°C+
Production History and Development
The journey from manga to definitive anime adaptation involved careful planning and exceptional execution.
Manga Begins: Hiromu Arakawa begins serializing Fullmetal Alchemist in Monthly Shōnen Gangan. The series quickly gains popularity for its unique blend of alchemy, science, and character-driven storytelling.
First Anime Adaptation: Studio Bones produces the first Fullmetal Alchemist anime, which diverges from the manga after approximately 25 episodes due to catching up with the source material.
Conqueror of Shamballa: The 2003 anime concludes with the movie Fullmetal Alchemist: The Conqueror of Shamballa, providing closure to the alternate storyline.
Manga Nears Completion: With the manga approaching its conclusion after 8 years, plans begin for a new, faithful adaptation covering the complete story.
Brotherhood Premieres: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood begins airing in Japan with a faster pace through early manga content, then settles into detailed adaptation of the remaining story.
Series Conclusion: Brotherhood concludes after 64 episodes, faithfully completing the manga's storyline to widespread critical acclaim.
The Sacred Star of Milos: An original movie set during the Brotherhood timeline is released, though not directly adapting manga content.
Legacy and Recognition: Brotherhood consistently maintains its position as the highest-rated anime, introduces new generations to the series, and influences subsequent anime storytelling.
Major Characters: The Heart of the Story
Brotherhood's immense cast features some of anime's most memorable and deeply developed characters.
Edward Elric
Title: The Fullmetal Alchemist
Age: 15-16 (series)
Abilities: Alchemy, automail combat
The youngest State Alchemist in history. Hot-tempered but deeply compassionate, Edward's journey is one of maturity and acceptance.
Alphonse Elric
Condition: Soul bound to armor
Age: 14-15 (soul)
Abilities: Alchemy, enhanced strength
Edward's younger brother. Despite his intimidating appearance, Al is gentle, philosophical, and the moral compass of the duo.
Roy Mustang
Title: The Flame Alchemist
Rank: Colonel → General
Abilities: Flame alchemy, strategy
Ambitious military officer with a hidden compassionate side. His character arc explores the ethics of power and redemption.
Riza Hawkeye
Position: Lieutenant, Mustang's aide
Skills: Master markswoman, tactician
Role: Mustang's moral restraint
The series' most capable non-alchemist fighter. Her loyalty and pragmatism make her essential to Mustang's ambitions.
Father / Homunculi
Identity: Dwarf in the Flask
Goal: Become a perfect being
Creations: Seven Homunculi
The series' primary antagonist. A being of pure intellect and ambition who views humanity as flawed and expendable.
Scar
Identity: Ishvalan survivor
Ability: Deconstruction alchemy
Mission: Destroy alchemists
A complex anti-hero driven by vengeance for his people's genocide. His journey from hatred to redemption is profoundly moving.
Van Hohenheim
Identity: Edward's father
Age: 400+ years
Nature: Philosopher's Stone vessel
Initially absent father revealed to have a tragic history. His relationship with his sons and centuries-spanning plan are central to the climax.
King Bradley
Position: Führer of Amestris
Secret: Wrath, a Homunculus
Skills: Ultimate Eye, swordsmanship
The charismatic leader hiding a monstrous nature. Represents the corruption at the heart of the military state.
THE PHILOSOPHER'S STONE
Amplifier of Alchemy • Concentrated Human Souls • Forbidden Knowledge • Ultimate Sacrifice
Themes and Philosophical Depth
Brotherhood explores profound questions about science, ethics, and human nature through its alchemical framework.
Equivalent Exchange
Concept: Cosmic balance of gain and loss
Manifestation: Alchemical law, character sacrifices
Challenge: Human transmutation exception
The series' central philosophical framework. Explored through characters constantly weighing costs against desired outcomes, ultimately questioning if some things are truly "equivalent."
The Nature of Humanity
Question: What makes us human?
Examples: Alphonse in armor, Homunculi
Answer: Soul, relationships, imperfection
Contrasts the "perfect" Homunculi with flawed humans. Argues that humanity's value lies in its limitations, connections, and capacity for growth.
Power and Corruption
Exploration: Military, alchemical, political power
Examples: State Alchemists, Father, Bradley
Warning: Absolute power corrupts absolutely
Examines how different characters wield and are affected by power. The Ishvalan War serves as a case study in military power devoid of ethics.
Redemption and Atonement
Characters: Scar, Roy Mustang, State Alchemists
Process: Acknowledgment, action, sacrifice
Message: Growth through facing past sins
Numerous characters seek redemption for past actions. The series argues that while some wrongs can't be undone, one can still choose a better path forward.
Science vs. Religion
Conflict: Alchemy (science) vs. Ishvalan faith
Synthesis: Alkahestry combines both
Resolution: Complementary perspectives
Explores tensions between scientific and spiritual worldviews through Amestris (alchemy) and Ishval (religion), ultimately finding harmony in Alkahestry.
Brotherhood and Family
Core: Edward and Alphonse's bond
Variations: Found family, surrogate parents
Thesis: Relationships give life meaning
The Elric brothers' relationship anchors the entire narrative. Explores biological family, chosen family, and how connections define us.
Behind the Alchemy: Fascinating Facts
- Historical Alchemy References: Hiromu Arakawa extensively researched historical alchemy. The Homunculi are named after the seven deadly sins, a concept from medieval Christian theology that alchemists incorporated into their work.
- Edward's Height Complex: Edward's famous rage about being called "short" stems from Arakawa's own experience being teased about height. In reality, at 165cm (5'5"), Edward is actually above average height for a 15-year-old Japanese male.
- Military Uniform Accuracy: The Amestrian military uniforms are based on Prussian/German designs from the early 20th century, reflecting the series' European-inspired setting and militaristic themes.
- Real Alchemical Symbols: Transmutation circles in the series incorporate real alchemical symbols: the triangle for fire, inverted triangle for water, triangle with line for air, and inverted triangle with line for earth.
- Hiromu Arakawa's Farm Background: Arakawa grew up on a dairy farm in Hokkaido, which influenced the series' setting (based on early 20th century Europe during industrialization) and themes of family and hard work.
- Voice Casting Perfection: Romi Park (Edward's Japanese VA) and Vic Mignogna (English VA) both brought unique interpretations—Park's raw emotion vs. Mignogna's passionate delivery—that defined their respective versions.
- The Ouroboros Symbolism: The Homunculi's Ouroboros tattoos represent the cyclical nature of their existence and the alchemical concept of "one is all, all is one"—everything is connected in a continuous cycle.
- Cultural Impact in Japan: The series sparked interest in chemistry and science among Japanese youth. The phrase "Equivalent Exchange" entered popular lexicon as a metaphor for fair trade-offs.
Why Brotherhood Stands the Test of Time
Fifteen years after its premiere, Brotherhood continues to attract new viewers and maintain critical supremacy.
Narrative Perfection
Every plot thread established pays off, every character arc completes satisfyingly, and themes introduced early resonate through the entire story with remarkable consistency.
Character Development
From major protagonists to minor supporting characters, everyone experiences meaningful growth. Even antagonists receive nuanced treatment that explains without excusing their actions.
World-Building Excellence
Amestris feels like a living country with history, politics, and cultural diversity. The integration of alchemy into society feels logical and consistently applied.
Pacing Mastery
64 episodes provide exactly the right length to tell the complete story without rushing or padding. The series maintains momentum while allowing emotional moments to breathe.
Musical Brilliance
Akira Senju's score ranges from epic orchestral pieces to intimate piano themes, each perfectly enhancing the emotional tone of every scene without overpowering it.
Visual Consistency
Studio Bones maintained exceptional animation quality throughout 64 episodes. The distinct character designs remain recognizable while allowing for expressive emotion.
Dual-Language Excellence
Both Japanese and English voice casts deliver career-defining performances. The English adaptation by Funimation is considered one of the best dubs in anime history.
Philosophical Depth
The series engages with complex ideas about science, ethics, and human nature without becoming pretentious or losing narrative drive—a rare balance in any medium.
Critical Analysis: The Anatomy of a Masterpiece
Structural Brilliance
Brotherhood operates on multiple interconnected narrative levels: the personal (Elric brothers' quest), the political (Amestrian military corruption), the philosophical (nature of humanity and equivalent exchange), and the cosmic (Father's plan). What makes the structure remarkable is how each level reinforces the others. Personal stakes escalate into national crises that reflect philosophical conflicts, creating a cohesive whole greater than the sum of its parts. The series follows a perfect three-act structure across 64 episodes: Act 1 establishes characters and world (eps 1-13), Act 2 expands conflict and raises stakes (eps 14-51), Act 3 delivers payoff and resolution (eps 52-64). Each episode advances plot, develops characters, and explores themes simultaneously—a testament to masterful adaptation of Arakawa's meticulously planned manga. The narrative avoids filler while including essential "breather" episodes that deepen character relationships, making the emotional climaxes land with maximum impact.
Potential Criticisms (and Rebuttals)
Few criticisms exist for Brotherhood, but common ones include: the rushed beginning for manga readers (covering early content in 13 episodes vs 25 in the 2003 adaptation), occasional comic relief tonal shifts, and the deus ex machina resolution for some characters. However, these "flaws" often have narrative justification. The faster beginning allows more time for the manga's second half, which the 2003 adaptation never reached. Comic relief provides necessary contrast to darker themes, preventing emotional exhaustion. Apparent deus ex machina moments are typically foreshadowed (e.g., Hohenheim's plan established episodes earlier). The most valid criticism might be the underdevelopment of certain Homunculi compared to the 2003 version, but Brotherhood's focus remains on the core themes and protagonist journey rather than antagonist backstories. These minor considerations hardly diminish the series' monumental achievements.
Cultural and Industry Impact
Brotherhood's legacy extends beyond entertainment into cultural and educational spheres. It demonstrated that faithful manga adaptations could achieve both critical and commercial success, influencing subsequent production decisions across the industry. The series introduced Western audiences to anime through its mature themes and sophisticated storytelling, bridging the gap between "cartoons" and "serious animation." Academically, Brotherhood has been analyzed in philosophy courses for its exploration of ethics, in literature courses for its narrative structure, and in religious studies for its treatment of science-spirituality dynamics. The "Equivalent Exchange" concept entered popular discourse as a metaphor for life's trade-offs. Visually, its blend of 2D animation with 3D elements set standards for action sequences. Most importantly, Brotherhood proved that anime could tell complete, satisfying stories without endless seasons or diminishing returns—a model that continues to influence how studios approach adaptation.
Awards and Recognition
Brotherhood's excellence has been recognized through numerous awards and sustained critical acclaim.
MyAnimeList
#1 Ranked Anime of All Time (consistently since 2010)
Tokyo Anime Awards
Anime of the Year (2010) and Best Director (Yasuhiro Irie)
Newtype Anime Awards
Best Screenplay, Best Soundtrack, Best Male Character (Edward)
IGN
#1 Best Anime Series of All Time (2014, 2020 updates)
Anime News Network
Highest Rated TV Anime in ANN's database
Crunchyroll Anime Awards
Hall of Fame induction (2021)
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from newcomers and longtime fans about this monumental series.
Questions Frequently Asked
- Should I watch the 2003 version or Brotherhood first? Brotherhood is the complete, definitive story. The 2003 version offers a different interpretation with stronger early character development but diverges completely. Most recommend Brotherhood as the essential experience, with the 2003 version as an interesting alternative for completists.
- Why is it called "Brotherhood"? The title emphasizes the central relationship between Edward and Alphonse Elric, which drives the entire narrative. It also distinguishes this adaptation from the 2003 version.
- How does alchemy work in FMA? Alchemy follows three laws: 1) Equivalent Exchange (to create, something of equal value must be lost), 2) Natural Providence (matter can only be created from similar materials), 3) Understanding (alchemist must understand the material's composition). Transmutation circles are required for most alchemy, with State Alchemists often using specialized circles or clapping to bypass drawn circles.
- What's the difference between Alchemy and Alkahestry? Alchemy (Western) focuses on decomposition and reconstruction of matter. Alkahestry (Eastern) focuses on the flow of energy through the Earth's dragon lines and has medical applications. Both are different approaches to the same universal principles.
- Why does Edward have automail? After losing his right arm and left leg in the failed human transmutation, Edward received automail (advanced mechanical prosthetics) from Pinako Rockbell and Winry Rockbell. The automail gives him enhanced capabilities but requires painful maintenance.
- What are the Homunculi? Artificial humans created by Father using Philosopher's Stones. Each represents one of the seven deadly sins and has unique abilities. Unlike humans, they can regenerate but have limited lifespans tied to their stones.
- Is Brotherhood appropriate for younger viewers? While classified as shōnen (aimed at teenage boys), Brotherhood deals with mature themes including genocide, ethics of science, and the nature of humanity. It features violence and disturbing imagery. Most recommend ages 14+.
Viewing Recommendation
For first-time viewers: Watch Brotherhood episodes 1-64 in order. The four recap episodes (27, 28, 41, 42) can be skipped without losing essential plot. The movie "The Sacred Star of Milos" is optional and doesn't affect the main storyline. For rewatchers: Pay attention to foreshadowing—Brotherhood plants clues for later revelations as early as episode 2. Notice how character designs reflect personalities, and how the score subtly shifts to match emotional arcs.
Available on: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Netflix, Hulu
Legacy and Influence
Brotherhood's impact extends beyond its runtime, shaping anime production and Western perceptions of the medium.
The "Complete Adaptation" Model
Brotherhood proved that faithful, complete manga adaptations could achieve critical and commercial success, influencing how studios approach source material.
Western Mainstream Acceptance
Alongside Attack on Titan and Death Note, Brotherhood introduced anime to audiences who previously dismissed the medium as childish or niche.
Philosophical Anime Benchmark
Brotherhood set new standards for integrating complex themes into action narratives, inspiring subsequent series to tackle weightier subject matter.
The English Dub Standard
The Funimation dub demonstrated that English adaptations could match or exceed the original in quality, raising expectations for localization.
THE ULTIMATE PRINCIPLE
"To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy's first law of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world's one, and only truth."
Conclusion: The Alchemical Gold Standard
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood represents the pinnacle of anime storytelling—a series where every element has been transmuted into narrative gold through the alchemy of exceptional writing, direction, animation, and performance. Its enduring status as the highest-rated anime isn't accidental but earned through meticulous craftsmanship and emotional authenticity. Brotherhood understands that the most compelling stories aren't about world-saving spectacle alone but about characters wrestling with impossible choices, facing consequences, and discovering what makes life worth living despite suffering. The Elric brothers' journey from desperate children to mature adults who accept limitations while never abandoning hope resonates because it reflects universal human experiences: grief, guilt, the search for meaning, and the transformative power of connection.
What makes Brotherhood timeless is its refusal to offer easy answers while maintaining unwavering hope. The series acknowledges that some losses can never be regained (equivalent exchange has limits) yet insists that growth, redemption, and meaning are still possible. Its philosophical depth never becomes pretentious because it's grounded in character relationships we care deeply about. The political commentary remains relevant because it explores how systems corrupt individuals and how individuals can resist systemic evil. The scientific framework feels authentic because it establishes clear rules then explores their implications and exceptions. Every narrative thread introduced finds satisfying resolution because the story understands its own themes and remains true to them from beginning to end.
Fifteen years after its conclusion, Brotherhood continues to be discovered by new generations who find in it not just entertainment but wisdom. It stands as proof that animation can tackle the weightiest subjects with nuance and that genre storytelling can achieve literary significance. In an industry increasingly focused on endless sequels and market trends, Brotherhood remains a complete artistic statement—beginning, middle, and end perfectly crafted. It demonstrates that the truest alchemy isn't transforming lead into gold but transforming pain into wisdom, isolation into connection, and storytelling into art. For these reasons, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood will likely remain not just the highest-rated anime, but the gold standard against which all narrative anime is measured for years to come. As Edward Elric learns through his journey: the greatest transformations aren't of matter, but of the human heart.