Fullmetal Alchemist

Not many people are going to like how I talk about FMA, better known as Fullmetal Alchemist. Aside from me, almost everyone I know loves it. I don't. The premise is brimming with potential, and yet it's lost through the two lackluster main characters. I just couldn't get into it. But I can understand the value of this anime. Some people have a unrealistic love for this series, and whilst it may be a little misplaced in my mind, there is enough quality behind this show to warrant the hero worship it gets. Just not from me.

The openings are always quite impressive.

On a planet ruled by the advanced magic known as alchemy (which is considered a science), the young Edward and Alphonse Elric use forbidden alchemy techniques to try and resurrect their lost mother. Lacking the correct trade off to bring someone back to life, the spell consumes Alphonse entirely and takes Edward's arm and leg. As a last resort, Edward binds his brother into a giant suit of armor. And so the two brothers begin their quest to restore their bodies.

It's a long journey filled with fights and colorful characters, all to find the philosopher's stone. They should of just asked Dumbledore nicely but I guess that's the easy way. Edward and his brother travel in search of the stone, encountering new friends and enemies along the way.

Edward and Alphonse, trying to resurrect their mother.

If you do like the sound of Fullmetal Alchemist, there are 51 episodes so you will have plenty to watch. There's a lot of food for thought too, you can spend a while thinking about the moral dilemmas and philosophical debates that take place throughout the anime.

So why don't I like this anime? Because the main characters don't do the brilliantly designed fictional world justice. The side characters are all great, with hidden motives and betrayals galore. But I just cannot get past the fact that the two people who get the most screen time bore me. So in other words, everything is fantastic from the artwork to the lore. Except for Edward and Alfie. They are young, immature, and somehow they have more knowledge about alchemy than geniuses who have spent their lives practicing the craft.

The main cast.

The graphics are well done and pleasing to the eye. With vibrant colors and not much lazy animation you would struggle to find a flaw. To back it up is a brilliant soundtrack with music from various well known Japanese artists. Combined, these two features create a great atmosphere from the moment you start watching. It's a very well rounded anime and anyone can see that. I also enjoyed watching the action scenes, which are animated with grace.

Ultimately I cannot call this anime bad just because I hated it. It has too much acclaim for me to be biased. So I'll just say it's not for me. It's well designed, has a wonderful manga to work from- and is probably a wholesome experience for most viewers. If you don't hate the douchebag protagonists like me, that is.

Edward Elric, getting seriousface.