Brotherhood vs. FMA

Attribute	Brotherhood	FMA
Release Year	2009	2003
Number of Episodes	64	51
Main Protagonist	Edward Elric	Edward Elric
Setting	Amestris	Amestris
Story Adaptation	Manga	Manga
Animation Studio	Bones	Bones
Art Style	Modern	Traditional
Music Composer	Akira Senju	Michiru Oshima
Opening Theme	"Again" by Yui	"Melissa" by Porno Graffitti
Ending Theme	"Uso" by Sid	"Kesenai Tsumi" by Nana Kitade

Introduction

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Fullmetal Alchemist are two popular anime series that have captivated audiences worldwide. Both shows are based on the manga series written by Hiromu Arakawa, but they differ in terms of storyline, character development, animation style, and overall reception. In this article, we will explore the attributes of both Brotherhood and the original Fullmetal Alchemist, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Storyline

Both Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Fullmetal Alchemist share a similar premise. They are set in a world where alchemy is a powerful force, and the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, seek the Philosopher's Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. However, the two series diverge in their execution of the storyline.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood follows the original manga more closely and presents a more faithful adaptation of the source material. It delves deeper into the political and philosophical aspects of the story, exploring themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of tampering with the natural order. On the other hand, the original Fullmetal Alchemist deviates from the manga's plot halfway through and introduces its own unique storyline. It focuses more on the personal journey of the Elric brothers and their encounters with various antagonists.

While both series have compelling storylines, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood's adherence to the manga gives it a more cohesive and well-paced narrative. The intricate plot twists and interconnected story arcs make it a more satisfying watch for those seeking a complex and thought-provoking story.

Character Development

Character development is a crucial aspect of any anime series, and both Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Fullmetal Alchemist excel in this regard. The Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, are the central characters in both series, and their growth and evolution are explored in depth.

In Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, the character development is more pronounced and consistent. Edward's journey from a brash and impulsive young alchemist to a mature and selfless individual is portrayed with great nuance. Alphonse's struggle with his identity as a soul bound to a suit of armor is also explored in a more profound manner. The supporting characters in Brotherhood, such as Roy Mustang, Winry Rockbell, and Scar, also receive significant development, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.

On the other hand, the original Fullmetal Alchemist places more emphasis on the emotional turmoil of the Elric brothers. The character development is still present, but it takes a slightly different direction. The focus is more on the brothers' relationship and their internal struggles rather than the broader world-building and political dynamics. This approach allows for a more intimate exploration of the Elric brothers' bond and their individual growth.

Ultimately, the character development in both series is commendable, but Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood's extensive cast and their well-rounded arcs give it an edge in terms of depth and complexity.

Animation Style

The animation style of an anime series can greatly impact the overall viewing experience. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Fullmetal Alchemist differ in their animation styles, contributing to their unique visual appeal.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood features a more polished and modern animation style. The character designs are sleek, and the action sequences are fluid and dynamic. The attention to detail in the backgrounds and the overall visual aesthetics make it visually stunning. The animation quality remains consistently high throughout the series, enhancing the overall immersion and enjoyment.

On the other hand, the original Fullmetal Alchemist, being an earlier adaptation, has a slightly different animation style. While it may not be as visually impressive as Brotherhood, it still has its own charm. The character designs have a more classic anime feel, and the animation captures the emotional intensity of the scenes effectively. The art style may appear slightly dated to some viewers, but it adds a nostalgic touch for those who appreciate the earlier days of anime.

Both animation styles have their merits, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood's modern and visually stunning animation may appeal to those who prefer a more polished look, while the original Fullmetal Alchemist's classic style may resonate with fans of older anime.

Reception

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Fullmetal Alchemist have garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and fans, but their reception differs to some extent.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is often regarded as one of the greatest anime series of all time. Its faithful adaptation of the manga, compelling storyline, well-developed characters, and stunning animation have earned it a dedicated fan base. The series has received numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its position as a modern classic in the anime industry.

The original Fullmetal Alchemist, while also highly regarded, has a more divided reception due to its deviation from the manga's plot. Some fans appreciate its unique storyline and the emotional depth it explores, while others prefer the cohesiveness of Brotherhood's narrative. Nevertheless, the original series still has a significant following and is praised for its character-driven approach and exploration of complex themes.

It is important to note that both series have their own merits and can be enjoyed independently. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood offers a more faithful and comprehensive adaptation of the manga, while the original Fullmetal Alchemist provides a distinct and emotionally charged experience.

Conclusion

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Fullmetal Alchemist are two exceptional anime series that have left a lasting impact on the anime community. While they share a common foundation, they diverge in terms of storyline, character development, animation style, and reception. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood's adherence to the manga, extensive character development, polished animation, and widespread acclaim make it a standout series. On the other hand, the original Fullmetal Alchemist's unique storyline, emphasis on emotional depth, classic animation style, and dedicated fan base give it its own distinct appeal. Ultimately, both series offer a captivating and thought-provoking viewing experience, and fans of the franchise can appreciate the attributes of each adaptation.