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easy to understand why Fullmetal Alchemist has regularly topped viewer
polls in Japan since its debut in 2003: the fantasy-adventure by director
Mizushima Seiji (Generator Gawl) offers a satisfying blend of slapstick
comedy, exciting adventure, and genuine warmth. Young Alphonse and
Edward Elric delve into forbidden knowledge when they use alchemy to try to
bring their mother back from the dead--and pay a terrible price under the
principle of "equivalent trade." Al becomes a disembodied soul in a suit of
armor; Ed loses an arm and a leg, but later receives mechanical prostheses.
The brothers wander through a world that resembles late 19th century
Europe, seeking the legendary Philosopher's Stone, which they believe can
restore their bodies. Unlike American programs that juxtapose smart-aleck
humor and heavy-handed sermonizing, Fullmetal Alchemist has real heart.
Neither the comedy nor the action detract from the bond between the
brothers that constitutes the emotional core of the series.