Can I Watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Without Watching the Original Series?

Yes, you can watch Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood without having seen the original Fullmetal Alchemist series. While Brotherhood indeed references events and characters from the original manga by Hiromu Arakawa, it is designed as its own standalone story. Here’s a closer look at how these two versions differ and why watching Brotherhood alone can be satisfying.

Understanding the Two Versions

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and the original Fullmetal Alchemist series are two separate but related adaptations. Brotherhood is a more faithful adaptation of the manga, maintaining a closer adherence to its source material. The original series, on the other hand, diverges significantly from the manga's storyline, taking the narrative in different directions.

Brotherhood is structured to be accessible to new viewers, explaining key plot points and summaries of important events through brief prologues. This means that while having some background knowledge can enhance your experience, it is not strictly necessary. In fact, due to its emphasis on summarizing events, many consider Brotherhood a preferable entry point into the series.

Adaptation and Faithfulness

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood seeks to be a faithful representation of the manga, which was written by Hiromu Arakawa. This adaptation was intended to present the story from an even more manga-centric perspective, retaining key characters and plot points. In contrast, the original series took more creative liberties with the source material, often deviating from the manga's narrative.

Both adaptations have their unique strengths and weaknesses. Some viewers may appreciate the detailed character development and plot twists present in Brotherhood, while others may prefer the original series for its distinct storytelling and creative elements.

Viewing Order and Recommendations

While you can watch Brotherhood alone, there are arguments for both viewing orders. Watching the original series first provides a richer context, character development, and thematic depth. This initial experience can enhance your appreciation of many elements in Brotherhood, such as the characters' relationships and the themes of alchemy and redemption.

On the other hand, starting with Brotherhood can be a more straightforward and immersive experience. At 13 episodes shorter than the original series, you’ll experience the finale much sooner, which might give you a different perspective on the events leading up to it. Additionally, Brotherhood's unique storytelling and emphasis on themes like family and forgiveness might offer a more nuanced understanding of the characters' motivations.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference for adapting or deviating from the manga. Both versions offer a compelling story, and personal opinions on which one is "better" can vary widely.

Why Brotherhood Stands Alone

Despite some initial differences, Brotherhood can indeed stand on its own. The series is consistently well-regarded by fans and critics alike, receiving high praise for its execution. Some unique elements in Brotherhood, such as the storyline involving Winry and Scar, offer a different perspective on themes like forgiveness and redemption. This storyline was largely absent in the original series, providing new insights and lessons for viewers.

Moreover, the way Brotherhood handles Winry's relationship with Scar versus Roy Mustang offers a different emotional and thematic journey. Scar's character in Brotherhood provides a compelling narrative arc that fans appreciate.

While some viewers might still prefer the original series for its unique creative elements, Brotherhood’s faithfulness to the manga and its strong character development make it a completely viable and enjoyable standalone experience.