I would recommend watching the original series before embarking on Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood as it allows for you to make a good comparison between the two series which are both worth watching but, it’s not necessary.
The overall plot here is essentially the same as the original Fullmetal Alchemist with some improvements in the sub plots. The Brotherhood series is also longer than the original by 12 episodes so there is a bit more to watch. Brotherhood has moments of excitement, action, and drama blended together with perfection making it one of my favorite plots in any anime series. Character development throughout the show is considerably noticeable through the long adventure Ed and Al partake in. The villains are also superbly developed doing that much more for the overall plot.
One of my favorite parts of Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is the music and dialogue. The music is seamlessly sewn into the show providing emphasis when needed and enhancing the overall mood of the show. The music is blended in so well that if you aren’t looking for it you most likely won’t even notice it. Considerable time must have been put into the development of the dialogue. But the subbed and dubbed versions are very nicely done and are not overly cheesy as in many series.
There are 3 distinctive animations styles used throughout the series that may or may not be accompanied by different art styles and are often situational. Each different style complements its situation. I really enjoy the exaggerated and semi-elongated style used in combat. It helps to provide a sense of intensity.
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is a very fun and exciting series. It is one of the beast shows anime has to offer and I would recommend it to anybody whether they are just getting into anime of have been watching it for a while.
