[You can skip this part, if ya like]
OK, so as I thought of writing up this post, I kept asking myself: What anime/manga would you recommend to anybody? And I've thought of some, but they all have complicated story lines (go figure!), so I wanted to avoid those being the first ones.
But alas, I couldn't! In order for me to get this flowing, I need to be passionate about it, right? And those are the intricate stories. Then again, I don't have to give away much of the story, but gaah!-- whatever, I'm just a indecisive person. Anyway, I have others that are not so intricate and more like light entertainment, but... I can't decide!
So, remember when I said I'd start with the ones I've completed? I take it BACK. Yes, because I can. Here goes! Oh, and don't complain to me if you know about this one, just like a bazillion others. :3 At least it's not Naruto~ (I can't warm up to it, sorry!)
[/end ramble]
"The world isn't perfect.
But it's there for us, doing the best it can.
And that's what makes it so damn beautiful."
- Roy Mustang
Full Metal Alchemist is the story of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who embark on a journey to restore the body parts that they have lost while playing with life and death, by using alchemy in an attempt to bring back their mother from the dead -- which resulted in failure.
The story sounds pretty straight-foward, but like many journeys, it's a hell of a long ride.
FMA is written and drawn by Hiromu Arakawa. It currently consists of 24 volumes, 22 of them published in the US at the moment.
THE STORY: Just like my title says, FMA is a story of blood and heartstrings.
Blood is staining our canvas, while the heartstrings are constantly being pulled. Full Metal Alchemist has a rich story, and a vast variety of issues being addressed. We see human evolution, as cities grow... and the government becomes corrupt. We see religion being questioned, morals being explored-- ultimately man being put to the test.
Too metaphorical? FMA has many metaphors. It's a story that may make you question your values, your perspective on things, and the raw emotions we experience. With a very big cast of characters, you get to see the big picture and the narrowed down. Despite the story being mainly revolving around Ed and Al, FMA takes us to many others, and gives us a deep look on their stories as well-- and how they are also part of this intricate tale.
THE CHARACTERS: Characters, for me, are a big deal. The story can be pretty lame, but if the characters really stick with you-- if they really leave an impression on you, it makes it all worth reading.
The characters of Full Metal Alchemist are so terribly developed. With so many, you get to see a wide batch of personalities, and they go through so much growth and emotion! And not just the "good" ones, but the so called "evil-doers" as well-- they also have their shining and humbling moments. If someone asked me who was my favorite character, I couldn't tell them. I found myself bonding with almost every character, even the crazy ones. There was something so human about them. And anybody who can bring human-like characters on paper and bring them to life, deserves a medal in my book.
THE ARTWORK: Another important factor for me. Alas, if the story is really good, then I can deal with poor artwork. Thankfully for FMA, that is not the case.
Hiromu Arakawa's art has clean and strong lines. The tones are very intense at times, where the black and white's strong contrast make a statement. Every scene has an atmosphere, especially when there's suspense involved. I personally really enjoy her character designs. They have a more realistic style to them, making it easier for each one to be unique. And the variety of expressions she is able to portray-- the many emotions she expresses in her characters with just their eyes-- for me it's dazzling. I don't know, call me silly, but it ain't easy to do that! Her attention to detail is also great.
DARK ACTION, HUMOR AND EMOTIONS: Full Metal Alchemist is a shounen manga, which means some sort of action is mandatory, and this story definitely doesn't lack that.
You'll see a lot of confrontation, a lot of bloodshed and a lot of tense moments. The story is ultimately quite dark and somber, and overall serious. But despite that, you'll find an endearing humor can be found in FMA. Sometimes even hilarious scenarios. I know I've laughed plenty in it! There are many funny moments to be found-- and just the right amount.
OVERALL: I definitely recommend Full Metal Alchemist to all those who like a rich and well woven story that only gets more and more exciting.
Although for those who don't like action, FMA may not be your cup of tea. But look, I'm a girl who's a total romantic at heart. I read silly shoujo mangas too. Yet I've learned to love series such as Full Metal Alchemist, and have come to like the thrilling action scenes. But hey, that's just me. It's up to you to give it a try.
Full Metal Alchemist is published in the US by Viz Media-- $9.99. But if you don't have the means of spending money, OneManga.com has the most up-to-date chapters. Happy reading!
(P.S. Click on the images for a larger view)
