Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood [Season 1 Episode 1]

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – Episode 1 Review: A Fiery Start to a Legendary Journey

When Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood premiered in 2009, fans of the original series and newcomers alike were buzzing with anticipation. The first episode, titled Fullmetal Alchemist, didn’t just meet expectations—it blew them out of the water with its stunning animation, gripping action, and a promise of deeper storytelling to come.

A Fresh Take on a Familiar Tale

Unlike the 2003 adaptation, Brotherhood aimed to stay true to Hiromu Arakawa’s manga from the get-go. However, Episode 1 threw a curveball by introducing an original storyline featuring Isaac McDougal, a rogue State Alchemist with a vendetta against Führer King Bradley. This decision sparked mixed reactions among fans. Some loved the fresh approach, while others questioned why the series didn’t dive straight into the manga’s iconic Liore arc.

One fan on MyAnimeList summed it up perfectly: “This was an awesome introduction, but I can’t wait for the real story to kick in!” The episode served as a bridge, easing viewers into the world of alchemy and the Elric brothers’ tragic past through flashbacks. The infamous “Nooooo!” scene—where Edward and Alphonse attempt human transmutation—was a chilling reminder of the consequences of playing god.

Animation and Music: Love It or Hate It

The animation quality was a major talking point. Studio Bones delivered crisp, dynamic visuals, especially during the alchemy battles. Isaac’s ice-based attacks and Edward’s fiery retaliation were a feast for the eyes. Fans praised the fluidity, with one commenter raving, “The animation was superb—Bones really outdid themselves!”

Then there was the opening theme, “Again” by YUI. Opinions were wildly divided. Some adored its energetic guitar riffs and emotional vocals, calling it “the perfect fit for the show’s tone.” Others? Not so much. One critic groaned, “The singer sounds like she’s struggling to breathe—why does it have to be so nasal?” Meanwhile, the ending theme, “Uso” by SID, received near-universal praise for its melancholic vibe.

Voice Acting: Nostalgia vs. New Blood

Voice acting was another hot topic. Romi Park and Rie Kugimiya reprised their roles as Edward and Alphonse, much to fans’ delight. However, Shinichiro Miki stepping in as Roy Mustang took some getting used to. “I miss the old Mustang,” lamented one viewer, while another admitted, “It’s different, but Miki’s growing on me.”

The Verdict: A Strong Start

Despite the debates over originality and music choices, Episode 1 succeeded in hooking audiences. It balanced action, world-building, and emotional weight—something Fullmetal Alchemist has always excelled at. As one fan put it, “If this is just the beginning, I can’t imagine how epic the rest will be.”

With its stellar animation, compelling characters, and a promise of darker themes ahead, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood kicked off its journey with a bang. Whether you loved the original episode or just tolerated it as a setup, one thing’s clear: the Elric brothers’ quest for redemption is going to be one hell of a ride.

Final Rating: 4.5/5 – A near-perfect introduction that leaves you hungry for more.

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Note: This review incorporates fan discussions from MyAnimeList to reflect genuine audience reactions.