Equivalent Exchange

I consider myself an avid, but sensible anime fan. I won't watch anything just to say that I have. So, before giving anything a try, I research it thoroughly on the Web. If the story/characters/morals/etc seem unique and interesting enough, I'm willing to give it a shot.

Of course, usually I end up setting it aside, or just watching it 'in my spare time' because it falls short of its potential (which drives me crazy!) or, even worse, it leads up so well toward the climax, only to fall on its face.

There have been few exceptions, I'm sad to say. Most anime and manga series disappoint. Even those that end decently often forget to address several important underlying themes. As a writer, this irks me the most.

So, why do I bring this up? Because there is one anime, at least, that does not disappoint. It does not cater to the fans. It does not sidestep issues or apologize for anything. It steadily climbs upward, ending in a bittersweet, yet truly satisfactory way.

Full Metal Alchemist.

After the loss of their mother, two alchemically-skilled brothers attempt the forbidden science of human transmutation to bring her back to life. But what they don't understand is the rule of equivalent exchange: To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. After nearly dying, these brothers have lost most everything; the older, his arm and leg, the younger, his body. Now, one with metal limbs, and the other trapped in a suit of armor, they have only one goal: To find the Philosopher's Stone and get their bodies back to normal. But they aren't the only ones after the red stone.

This series has taken the title of 'greatest anime of all time', and for good reason. This story doesn't back down. If future series can learn from this one, anime may yet survive. Otherwise its fans will eventually have to accept and admit that there's nothing new to see. The same story has been done time and time again.

How is Full Metal Alchemist different?

As I said before, it doesn't apologize. The characters struggle with moral issues; each having to decide whether the end truly justifies the means. Each character has an ultimate goal. Each character has feelings, a story. And it's not all tragic either. This series shows life: all its ups and down (even if it is on a more explosive scale). It doesn't deal solely with action, but with people.

Death. That is the issue most often addressed. And what could be more poignant? As mortals, we all have brushes with death. We have all seen it, we will all experience it. To some, it is a fear, to others, a relief.

With Full Metal Alchemist, anime reached new heights. This series defied the rules and broke free. It is more than entertainment. It is a true epic journey--one that, if you allow, will change your perspective, or make it even more firmly set.

The story drives you. Touches you. Teaches you. It's an inspiring journey where you can experience laughter, regret, sadness, love, and tears. The protagonist doesn't have all the answers, and he isn't always right. That is the nature of us all. We're all on a journey to discover ourselves and our purpose.

This story will definitely stay with you long after its end. Because it doesn't just entertain the mind; it talks to the heart.

--M.W.
review 1st draft