Story
The story was told by providing a lot of context for why things are the way they are. As an example, show why Alphonse is wearing armor and how Edward lost an arm and a leg. There was a really nice sequence of events leading up to the show's end. To me, the story was quite unique. A lot of stuff in the show was very unbiased.
They stayed neutral. They follow only one rule. If you want to gain something you must lose something in return. An equal exchange. Don't worry, there was some comedic humor sprinkled throughout, but they never lost sight of the story.
They are some mysteries that got me thinking a lot about how things are in the show. And why did this person perish while the other did not? It took a lot of thought. As I previously stated, they provide a lot of background information. Some flashbacks as to why things are. Those flashbacks were much needed.
Art
The animation looks very very good. They use CGI extensively, but only for a large number of people and objects required for the story. The fighting scene animation was really fluid. The distinct character design ties the story together. They were some characters who looked alike, but it didn't bother me.
Sound
I wish Edward and Alphonse's voices had gotten deeper as they grew older. It was kind of weird to hear a child-like voice in a grown man's body. The background music complements the story. The orchestral sound for the sad scene only added to the sadness.
Character
Edward was a well-rounded individual. He uses his knowledge of alchemy to try to reclaim his mother and to save his country. He does have a temper whenever someone calls him short or anything that relates to something being small. He dislikes it when people's lives are taken away. He doesn't care how long it takes. He doesn't want to take a life of a human being. He grew quite a bit simply through experience.
Alphonse is also a well-rounded individual. He can keep his cool better than his older brother, Edward. He, too, employs alchemy. Just like his brother. He thinks similarly to his brother. Doesn't enjoy killing.
All the antagonists/villains did have the motivation and they're all the same. I don't have much to say because their motivation is the most important aspect of the story. Without that this show would've been useless. So that being said the villains did carry the show. The story had no narrator. I like Edward Elric but not King Bradley. But I'll never forget Edward's long blonde hair.
Enjoyment
Others, I believe, would enjoy this show. There are enough episodes to complete the story. I'll probably watch it again. Just for the mystery, because I enjoy thinking. But I might only watch the climax area to the resolution. This was really a memorable show.
34.5 out of 39 users liked this review