Directed by: Seiji Mizushima
Studio: BONES, Network: MBS-TBS(JP),Cartoon Network(US),TVB(HK)
Story:
Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. 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. - Alphonse Elric. FMA Intro
Edward and Alphonse Elric are two brothers living in a rural village. Their father, who is an alchemist, left home when Edward was very young and Alphonse was a baby. Years later when their mother dies, and they were left orphans. It was then that the young alchemists made the decision to attempt to revive their deceased mother, then study alchemy with a teacher and then afterwards use their father's notes to rcreate their mother. Their attempt failed miserably, and it cost Edward his leg and Alphonse his entire body. Desperate not to lose his brother, Edward loses his arm in order to bind his brother's soul to a suit of armor.
Years after, a state alchemist by the name Roy Mustang showed up shortly in response to letters the boys had sent out seeking information about their father. Spurred on by Roy's proposal, Edward and Alphonse become State Alchemists to find a way to restore what he and Alphonse have lost, but firstly used the money his parents had left behined to have automail limbs. The brothers eventually learn of the Philsopher's Stone and set off in search of it as a means of restoring their bodies.
Storyline: 8/10
When I first watched FMA, I was pretty bored, but as soon as I understood the story and started to see more action, I thought it was awesome. The anime has some motto behind it and seems somewhat inspirational and has an insight to how peoples views and beliefs can corrupt others. (would be moreunderstandable if you actually watch the anime >.O) The anime is still running I believe, so watch out for some new episodes. More kickass action.
Characters: 8/10
I think the characters are brilliant. My fav has to be Alphonse (even though he is a piece of armor) and Roy Mustang, because hes just cool in many ways. Ed has to be one nifty alchemist although he has got alot to catch up with. Transmuting objects to another thing is pretty cool I'd say. Imagine transforming a normal fountain to a wine filled fountain. Cool eh?
Animation: 9/10
Beautiful Colors all around. I'm loving the cgi, especially in the intros and outros. The characters and scenery are done very nicely, kinda like Naruto.
Music/Soundtrack: 9/10
The music is something to enjoy too. I love the themes Ready Steady Go, Melissa and Kesenai Tsumi wich are the best to listen to in my opinion. The theme songs build up tension alot and creates an atmosphere to the anime and brings out a characters image.
English DUB: 8/10
I own alot of FMA dvds, which in each volume contain both the english audio and the japanese. I have to say, im quite impressed. Its not as bad as Naruto though, and there isnt many complaints I've heard. I like Alphonse's voice the most, he sounds so cute and I think every character has the best voice for each of them.
OVERALL SCORE: 9.3/10
English and japanese voices are fab, the story isnt so bad and I think FMA is a cool and popular anime series. The manga too is great! I think this is something people should see. Anyone else here wanna feel like transmuting their annoying siblings into wood? Just a thought.