No, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is not just a remake of the original Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) anime; it is an entirely separate and distinct adaptation. While both series share the same core characters and initial premise, they diverge significantly in their storylines and execution.
Understanding the Distinction
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood was created by the same animation company, Bones, five years after the original series concluded. The fundamental difference lies in their source material:
- Original Fullmetal Alchemist (2003): This series began airing while the manga was still ongoing. As a result, it eventually deviated from the manga's plot, creating its own original storyline and ending.
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009): This adaptation was produced once the manga was nearing completion, allowing it to follow the manga's storyline much more faithfully from beginning to end. It aims to be a comprehensive animated version of Hiromu Arakawa's original comic series.
Key Differences Between the Adaptations
Both series are celebrated for their quality and storytelling, but they offer fundamentally different viewing experiences. They should be considered standalone works due to their unique narratives.
| Feature | Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) | Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009) |
|---|---|---|
| Source Material | Partially follows manga, then original story arc | Closely follows the entire manga storyline |
| Pacing | Slower in early parts, then builds its own narrative | Faster in early parts (assuming prior knowledge), consistent with manga |
| Story Arc | Unique, darker, and more philosophical original ending | Manga-accurate, comprehensive, and action-packed |
| Focus | Character-driven, often exploring moral dilemmas and consequences of alchemy | Plot-driven, focusing on the grander conspiracy and world-building |
| Ending | Entirely original, culminating in a different conflict | Faithful to the manga's conclusion |
While the first few episodes of Brotherhood might cover similar ground to the original, they do so at a faster pace, quickly moving towards the manga's narrative. This allows Brotherhood to delve into arcs and characters that were never explored in the 2003 series, providing a complete adaptation of the source material. For more detailed insights into their differences, one can explore comprehensive comparisons available online.
