Discover the best way to enjoy the “Fullmetal Alchemist” series according to its production timeline. Beginning in 2003, Studio Bones released a 51-episode anime that was a loose adaptation of the manga. This initial “Fullmetal Alchemist” series includes:
The movie, “The Conqueror of Shamballa,” acts as a sequel/finale to this first TV series. Make sure not to watch it before finishing “Fullmetal Alchemist.”
A second anime adaptation emerged in 2009, known as “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood,” with 64 episodes that hew much closer to the manga’s storyline. Different production staff back this series, though several voice actors remain, such as Romi Park as Ed and Rie Kugimiya as Al. The English dub from Funimation (now part of Crunchyroll) connects the series further by retaining much of the same voice cast. “Brotherhood” includes:
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“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood”
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The “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood — OVA Collection”, which contains four additional episodes derived from the manga’s side chapters.
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The film “Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos.”
“Brotherhood” is known for its dynamic pace, and I recommend viewing it straight through without breaks for the best experience. Save the OVAs and “The Sacred Star of Milos” for after you’ve finished the series.
2017 marked the premiere of the live-action “Fullmetal Alchemist” film with worldwide distribution by Netflix and the series concluded with two sequels in 2022. This live-action trilogy includes:
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“Fullmetal Alchemist” (2017)
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“Fullmetal Alchemist: The Revenge of Scar”
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“Fullmetal Alchemist: The Final Alchemy.”
My candid advice is to bypass the live-action installments, as they encounter typical issues of the genre like rushed storytelling and awkward adaptations of the original material. The animated manga and series handle the storylines with more finesse.
FAQs About Watching Fullmetal Alchemist
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Should I watch “Fullmetal Alchemist” or “Brotherhood” first?
If you want to see the story as it develops in the manga, start with “Brotherhood.” However, some fans enjoy watching the original 2003 series first for a different perspective.
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Are the OVAs necessary to understand the main plot of “Brotherhood”?
No, they are supplementary and can be watched after completing the main series.
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Can I watch the live-action movies instead of the anime?
The live-action adaptations are not recommended if you want the complete and authentic “Fullmetal Alchemist” experience.
Conclusion
Enjoying “Fullmetal Alchemist” in the right order enriches the experience, allowing fans to immerse themselves fully in the world and its characters. “Brotherhood” offers the most comprehensive adaptation of the manga and is recommended to be watched consecutively for maximum effect. The OVAs and the “Sacred Star of Milos” can serve as an additional treat post-“Brotherhood.” Finally, the live-action movies are generally seen as optional and not crucial to fans seeking the depth and quality of the original animated stories.