Fullmetal Alchemist vs. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – Which One Is Better?

🚨 Spoiler Warning! 🚨
This article contains major spoilers for Fullmetal Alchemist and Brotherhood. If you haven’t finished the anime or manga, read at your own risk!

When it comes to legendary anime, few series have sparked as much debate as Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009). Both tell the powerful story of Edward and Alphonse Elric, two brothers who, after a failed alchemy experiment, set out on a journey to restore their bodies. However, while they share the same foundation, these two adaptations take very different approaches in storytelling, pacing, and character development.

One of the biggest reasons this comparison remains relevant is that new viewers often wonder: Which one should I watch first? With Brotherhood being the faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s manga and the 2003 version taking an original path, each has its own strengths and unique appeal. Some fans prefer the darker, more emotional tone of the 2003 anime, while others praise Brotherhood for its faster pacing and tighter storytelling.

So, which one is better? That depends on what you’re looking for in an anime. In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences, from the storyline to animation, character development, and soundtrack, helping you decide which version suits your taste. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this is a battle worth exploring!

The Story: Key Differences

Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009) both chronicle the journey of the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, in their quest to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. However, the paths these two adaptations take diverge significantly, leading to distinct narratives and thematic explorations.

Divergence from the Manga

The 2003 adaptation, Fullmetal Alchemist, began production while Hiromu Arakawa's manga was still ongoing. Consequently, after covering the available source material, the anime veered into an original storyline. This deviation introduced new characters and plotlines, culminating in a unique conclusion separate from the manga's trajectory. In contrast, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood was produced after the manga's completion, allowing it to serve as a faithful adaptation that closely mirrors the original plot and character developments.

Exploration of Core Themes

Both series delve into profound themes such as sacrifice and redemption, but they approach these concepts differently.

• Sacrifice: In the 2003 series, the narrative places a heavier emphasis on the personal costs of alchemy. The Elric brothers confront the ethical implications of their actions, often facing tragic outcomes that underscore the gravity of tampering with natural laws. This version portrays sacrifice as an inevitable consequence of the relentless pursuit of one's goals, highlighting the emotional and moral toll it exacts.

• Redemption: The theme of redemption is intricately woven into the arcs of several characters in both adaptations. However, the 2003 series presents a more nuanced exploration, where characters grapple with their past mistakes in a world that often offers no easy absolution. This portrayal reflects a darker and more introspective tone, emphasizing the complexity of seeking forgiveness and the burden of guilt.

In contrast, Brotherhood aligns more closely with the manga's optimistic outlook, presenting sacrifice and redemption within a framework that emphasizes hope and resilience. Sacrifices made by characters often lead to personal growth and positive outcomes, reinforcing the notion that enduring hardships can pave the way for redemption and fulfillment.

Narrative Structure and Antagonists

The differing narratives also influence the portrayal of antagonists. In the 2003 series, the primary antagonist is Dante, a character exclusive to this adaptation, who manipulates events from the shadows to achieve immortality. Conversely, Brotherhood features Father as the central villain, whose ambitions and origins are deeply intertwined with the world's alchemical history, as depicted in the manga.

While both adaptations stem from the same premise, their divergent paths offer audiences distinct experiences. The 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist provides an original narrative with a darker tone, focusing on the personal costs of ambition and the complexities of redemption. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, staying true to the manga, delivers a cohesive story that balances intense action with philosophical reflections, ultimately conveying a message of hope and perseverance.

Animation and Art Style

When comparing the animation and art styles of Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009), it's evident that both series, produced by Studio Bones, offer distinct visual experiences that reflect their respective production periods and narrative tones.

Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)

The 2003 adaptation presents a darker and more atmospheric aesthetic, aligning with its somber narrative. The color palette is often muted, utilizing subdued tones that enhance the series' serious themes. While the character designs are consistent and detailed, the animation occasionally exhibits limited movement, with scenes where only the speaking character is animated, leaving backgrounds static. This approach contributes to a more intimate and introspective feel, emphasizing character emotions over dynamic action.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009)

In contrast, Brotherhood showcases a brighter and more vibrant art style, reflecting its action-oriented tone. The series features a varied and lively color palette, which brings energy to the storytelling. The animation quality is notably advanced, with fluid and dynamic action sequences that enhance the viewing experience. Backgrounds are often alive with motion, making the world feel more immersive and real. The character designs in Brotherhood stay true to Hiromu Arakawa's original manga illustrations, offering a sleek and polished look that appeals to modern audiences.

Both adaptations excel in their unique visual presentations. The 2003 series' darker aesthetic and muted animation complement its introspective narrative, while Brotherhood's vibrant visuals and fluid animation enhance its faithful retelling of the manga's dynamic story. These stylistic choices not only distinguish each series but also cater to different viewer preferences, enriching the overall experience of the Fullmetal Alchemist universe.

Pacing and Storytelling

When comparing the pacing and storytelling of Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009), it's evident that each series offers a unique narrative rhythm that influences the viewer's engagement.

Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)

The 2003 adaptation begins with a deliberate and measured pace, allowing for in-depth character development and exploration of the philosophical themes inherent in the story. This approach provides viewers with a deep emotional connection to the characters early on. However, as the series progresses beyond the available manga material, it introduces an original storyline. This divergence leads to a shift in pacing, with some arcs feeling drawn out and others rushed, potentially impacting the overall narrative cohesion.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009)

In contrast, Brotherhood adheres closely to Hiromu Arakawa's original manga, resulting in a more consistent and structured narrative flow. The initial episodes are fast-paced, summarizing early events to quickly progress to content not covered in the 2003 series. This brisk beginning may feel overwhelming to new viewers but ensures that the story advances swiftly. As the series unfolds, the pacing steadies, allowing for comprehensive world-building and character arcs that align with the source material. This methodical approach contributes to a more cohesive and engaging storytelling experience.

Which Maintains a More Consistent and Engaging Flow?

Brotherhood's commitment to the manga's storyline provides a balanced and engaging narrative that maintains momentum throughout its 64 episodes. The initial rapid pacing serves to quickly immerse viewers into the plot, with subsequent episodes offering a harmonious blend of action, character development, and thematic depth. Conversely, the 2003 series, while rich in emotional storytelling, experiences variations in pacing due to its departure from the source material, leading to an uneven narrative flow.

Both adaptations present unique storytelling experiences shaped by their pacing choices. Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) offers a character-focused narrative with a variable pace, appealing to viewers who appreciate original storytelling. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, with its faithful adaptation and consistent pacing, delivers a more cohesive and engaging experience, particularly for those seeking alignment with the original manga.

Character Development

The Fullmetal Alchemist series, in both its 2003 and Brotherhood (2009) adaptations, offers rich character development, particularly concerning the protagonists, Edward and Alphonse Elric, and the portrayal of antagonists like Dante and Father. Each version presents unique character arcs that significantly influence the audience's emotional engagement.

Edward and Alphonse Elric: Divergent Journeys

In the 2003 adaptation, Edward and Alphonse's character development is deeply intertwined with the series' original storyline. The narrative delves into their personal struggles, highlighting the psychological toll of their failed human transmutation and the moral ambiguities they face. This version emphasizes their internal conflicts, portraying a more introspective journey that resonates with viewers seeking profound character studies.

Conversely, Brotherhood adheres closely to Hiromu Arakawa's manga, offering a broader exploration of the Elric brothers' development. The series balances their personal growth with extensive world-building, showcasing their evolution amidst complex political and philosophical themes. Edward matures from a hot-headed youth to a responsible adult, while Alphonse's quest for identity and humanity is portrayed with nuanced depth. This alignment with the source material provides a cohesive narrative, enhancing the audience's connection to the characters.

Antagonists: Dante vs. Father

The 2003 series introduces Dante as the primary antagonist—a character absent from the manga. Dante is depicted as a former lover of Hohenheim, who prolongs her life by transferring her soul into different bodies using Philosopher's Stones. Her motivations are rooted in personal desires and manipulative schemes, offering a localized threat that directly impacts the protagonists. However, some critics argue that her character lacks the depth and development found in other villains, potentially diminishing her impact on the audience.

In contrast, Brotherhood features Father as the central villain—a being created from the essence of "The Dwarf in the Flask". Father's ambitions extend beyond personal gain; he seeks to become a perfect being by absorbing God. His character embodies themes of hubris and the pursuit of absolute power, serving as a catalyst for the series' exploration of existential questions. Father's intricate backstory and connection to the world's alchemical history provide a multi-dimensional antagonist, enriching the narrative and deepening audience engagement.

Impact on Emotional Engagement

The distinct character developments in each adaptation elicit varied emotional responses from the audience. The 2003 series' focus on the Elric brothers' personal struggles and Dante's intimate antagonism creates a melancholic atmosphere, fostering a deep emotional connection with viewers attuned to character-driven stories. In contrast, Brotherhood's expansive narrative, coupled with Father's grandiose ambitions, offers a dynamic and immersive experience, appealing to audiences who appreciate complex plotlines and philosophical depth.

In conclusion, both adaptations provide unique perspectives on character development. The 2003 series offers an intimate exploration of the protagonists' psyche, while Brotherhood presents a comprehensive and faithful adaptation of the source material, enriching the characters within a broader thematic context. These differences significantly shape the viewer's emotional journey, underscoring the enduring appeal of the Fullmetal Alchemist franchise.

Soundtrack and Voice Acting

Both Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009) boast remarkable soundtracks and distinct voice acting performances, each contributing uniquely to their respective series' atmospheres.

Soundtrack

The 2003 adaptation features the iconic piece "Bratja", a recurring theme that underscores the series' emotional depth. This composition is lauded as one of the great anime themes, enhancing pivotal moments with its haunting melody.

In contrast, Brotherhood offers a dynamic and varied soundtrack, aligning with its action-oriented narrative. The music complements the series' pacing, providing an energetic backdrop to the unfolding story.

Voice Acting

In the original Japanese versions, both series maintain high-quality performances, with many voice actors reprising their roles in Brotherhood, ensuring continuity and familiarity for the audience.

Regarding the English dubs, several key voice actors returned for Brotherhood. Notably, Vic Mignogna continued as Edward Elric, maintaining the character's distinctive tone. However, the role of Alphonse Elric saw a change; originally voiced by Aaron Dismuke in the 2003 series, the character was portrayed by Maxey Whitehead in Brotherhood, bringing a subtly different interpretation to the younger Elric brother.

These differences in soundtrack and voice acting contribute to each series' unique ambiance, influencing viewers' emotional connections and overall experience.

Faithfulness to the Manga

When examining the faithfulness of the Fullmetal Alchemist adaptations to Hiromu Arakawa's manga, notable distinctions emerge between the 2003 series and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009).

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – A Faithful Adaptation

Brotherhood is celebrated for its strict adherence to the original manga's storyline. This adaptation meticulously follows the plot arcs, character developments, and thematic elements as envisioned by Arakawa, ensuring a cohesive and authentic representation of the source material. The series captures the complex narratives and philosophical undertones present in the manga, offering fans a comprehensive and faithful viewing experience.

Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) – Divergence from the Source Material

In contrast, the 2003 adaptation presents a significant departure from the manga. Produced while the manga was still ongoing, the anime initially aligns with the source material but eventually diverges, introducing original plotlines and characters. This deviation leads to a distinct narrative direction, offering an alternate exploration of the Fullmetal Alchemist universe.

Major Changes in the 2003 Anime Adaptation

Several key differences characterize the 2003 series:

• Antagonists: The introduction of Dante as the primary antagonist contrasts with the manga and Brotherhood, where Father assumes this role. Dante's motivations and backstory differ markedly, leading to a unique conflict resolution.

• Homunculi Origins: The 2003 adaptation portrays homunculi as failed human transmutations, each representing an attempt to resurrect a specific individual. This interpretation differs from the manga, where homunculi are creations of Father, each embodying a distinct sin.

• Character Arcs: Certain characters experience altered story arcs. For instance, Maes Hughes' fate and the Elric brothers' journey diverge from the manga's portrayal, leading to different emotional beats and resolutions.

Impact on Audience Reception

These differences in narrative fidelity have influenced audience reception. Brotherhood's alignment with the manga has been praised for delivering a satisfying and complete story, resonating with fans of the original work. Conversely, the 2003 series, while criticized by some for its deviations, is also appreciated for its unique storytelling and emotional depth, offering an alternative perspective on the Fullmetal Alchemist universe.

In summary, while Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood provides a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa's manga, the 2003 series offers a distinct narrative experience, each contributing uniquely to the franchise's rich legacy.

Conclusion: Which One is Better?

After analyzing story, animation, pacing, character development, soundtrack, and faithfulness to the manga, it's clear that both Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood offer unique experiences for different types of viewers.

If you're looking for a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa's manga, with a fast-paced and action-packed narrative, then Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is the better choice. It delivers the complete story, staying true to the original themes and world-building while featuring high-quality animation and epic battles.

On the other hand, Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) is an excellent option for those who enjoy a darker, more philosophical take on the story. Since it diverges from the manga, it explores unique themes, offers a slower, more emotional build-up, and has a mature and tragic atmosphere that resonates with many fans.

Ultimately, the best version depends on what you’re looking for. For an authentic manga experience, go with Brotherhood. If you prefer a more introspective and alternative approach, Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) is worth watching. Either way, both adaptations are masterpieces that have left a lasting impact on the anime world.