Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (or FMA:B, as the intellectuals call it) stands as one of the most under-appreciated anime series of all time. From its heart-breaking character development to its suspenseful story, this adventure shounen will keep you hooked for hours. I had seen FMA:B on an obscure list a few months ago and decided to check out it just for kicks, not expecting anything from a random Bones anime. When I finally got around to watching it, I was pleasantly surprised by how consistent the pacing was and how the animation gorgeously captured the science of alchemy. I was fully immersed in the world-building and dramatic twists. I binged through the whole thing in only a couple of days and couldn’t believe when it was over. After reaching the satisfying end, I felt the urge to let everyone know of this underrated gem. FMA:B might build on what FMA started, but I think even as a direct sequel it holds its own. It’s accessible for all demographics—western or eastern, adult or child—and makes up for its lack of nudity with wholesome platonic relationships. Dark themes mix with light humor in a perfect solution of classic anime enjoyment.
9/10 show for sure, but I bumped it down to 8/10 because the little Chinese girl with the panda thing was so freaking annoying. I swear to Father, I will crush her tiny adorable face with my fist and laugh as her unbearably high-pitched voice is silenced forever. I wish I could go back in time and make sure she was never written in this show.
