Series · 2003
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)
鋼の錬金術師
Edward and Alphonse Elric attempt forbidden alchemy to restore their dead mother and lose parts of their own bodies instead. Alphonse's soul is bound to armour; Edward uses mechanical limbs. They travel in search of the Philosopher's Stone and a way to recover what was lost.
Edward gives up an additional arm to anchor his brother's soul after the failed transmutation. The quest therefore begins with care and responsibility between two survivors, rather than an abstract desire for power. This is the 2003 television adaptation's continuity, separate from Brotherhood and followed by its own named film.
In Liore, the brothers meet Cornello, whose followers accept his apparent miracles. Their search for the Stone brings alchemy into contact with religious authority and a town's loyalty. The conflict tests who gets to explain an extraordinary event, with a crowd's belief carrying consequences beyond the abilities of either brother.
Complete 2003 television anime · Approx. 21 hours · 51 episodes
Complete 51-episode 2003–04 television adaptation. Brotherhood is a distinct adaptation and continuity. The sequel film Conqueror of Shamballa remains outside this television total.