Okay, Let's Talk Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (Dub, Episode 1)
Right, let’s dive into the deep end. Specifically, the deep end of the Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood pool. And yes, we're talking about the dubbed version.
Episode 1. "Fullmetal Alchemist". Does it hold up? Is it the glorious start everyone claims?
First Impressions: Shiny and New?
The animation? Gorgeous. Seriously, Brotherhood came out swinging. Everything looks so crisp and vibrant.
But here's my possibly controversial opinion: the dub, in the beginning, felt... a little forced? I know, I know, blasphemy!
Everyone sounds like they're trying a *little* too hard to be quirky. Especially the early banter between Edward and Alphonse.
The Voice Acting... Is It Just Me?
Don't get me wrong, the voice actors are talented. I adore Vic Mignogna as Edward in later episodes. But in the very first one?
Something about it feels a little... off. Like they hadn't quite settled into their roles yet. Maybe it’s just me!
And Alphonse? His voice is perfect. No complaints there. Seriously, it's exactly what you'd imagine a gentle giant of a soul trapped in armor to sound like.
The Story Though... Still Hooks You!
Even if the initial voice acting is a tad rough around the edges, the story? Captivating. From the get-go, you're thrown into this amazing world.
Alchemy, automail, and a burning desire for redemption. What's not to love?
That whole transmuting-your-mom thing? Brutal. A punch right in the gut from the very beginning. Sets the tone perfectly.
The Action! Oh, the Action!
Edward's fights in this episode are fantastic. We get a taste of his alchemic abilities and his automail skills.
He's a powerhouse, despite his size. And watching him take down that phony priest? So satisfying.
You instantly understand why people love this series. Even with my minor (and possibly insane) voice acting gripes.
Overall: Worth the Watch?
Absolutely! Even if the voice acting isn't *perfect* right out of the gate. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a masterpiece.
The story, the characters, the world-building... it's all top-notch. And the dub gets much, much better as the series progresses.
So, if you're new to anime or just revisiting this classic, give it a shot. You won't regret it.
My Final (Slightly Unpopular) Verdict
Brotherhood Episode 1 dub: A great start to an amazing series. But maybe, just maybe, the voice acting needs a *tiny* bit of seasoning.
Don't @ me!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to rewatch the entire series. For research purposes, of course.
“A lesson without pain is meaningless. That's because no one can gain something without sacrificing something else in return. But once you have overcome it and made it your own... you will gain an irreplaceable fullmetal heart.”
