This 2009 anime series is a compelling remake of a popular 2003 effort based on the bestselling manga Hiromu Arakawa (while this version more closely adheres to the source's spirit and plotline, preference for one over the other will be a matter of personal taste). The central characters are Edward and Alphonse Elric, young brothers in the state of Amestris whose attempt to master the fundamental laws of alchemy result in a gruesome accident that leaves Edward without a leg and Alphonse's body vaporized. Edward sacrifices an arm so Alphonse's soul can remain extant within a suit of armor, while prosthetics enable the dismembered Edward to gain a position as state alchemist. The pair spend much of their time in search of the Philosopher's Stone, a mysterious relic with the power to spur unprecedented feats of alchemy. However, others are also seeking the highly desirable gem, including the Homunculi, a humanoid band taking their personalities from the seven deadly sins. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a visually handsome production (especially on the Blu-ray version), rich with weird and unsettling storylines, stylized violence, and offbeat humor (mostly involving befuddled antagonists who cannot understand Alphonse's seemingly empty armor). Compiling the first 13 episodes in a dual-language two-disc set, rated TV-14, extras include a pair of episode commentaries. Highly recommended. [Note: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Part Two is also newly available.] Aud: P. (P. Hall)
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Part One
(2009) 2 discs. 325 min. DVD: $49.98, Blu-ray: $54.98. Funimation (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 1-4210-1977-9 (dvd), 1-4210-2079-3 (blu-ray). Volume 25, Issue 5
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Part One
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