It's a common query that brings many fans here, and we're thrilled you're diving into the rich worlds of anime! Let's get straight to the heart of the matter and clear up a popular point of confusion right away: Subaru Natsuki, the protagonist you're likely thinking of, is not a character in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.
Subaru Natsuki is the beloved main character from the hit fantasy series Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World, a completely different anime with its own unique universe, story, and cast. In Re:Zero, Subaru is typically depicted as a 17-year-old high school student when he's transported to the fantasy world of Lugunica. While both Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Re:Zero are critically acclaimed anime, they exist in entirely separate fictional realms.
Now that we’ve clarified Subaru Natsuki’s true home, let's shift our focus to the incredible series you also mentioned: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. We’ll explore its fascinating world, its iconic characters, and uncover what makes it one of the most highly regarded anime of all time.
Unraveling the Character Mix-Up: Subaru Natsuki's True Series
It's easy to get beloved anime characters and their respective worlds a little jumbled, especially with so many fantastic series available. To reiterate, Subaru Natsuki is the spirited, sometimes overly confident, protagonist of Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World. He's known for his distinctive tracksuit and his unique ability, "Return by Death," which allows him to rewind time after dying, albeit at a great psychological cost. Throughout the Re:Zero series, Subaru remains around the age of 17, grappling with the challenges of a new world and the dark mysteries that plague it.
While his journey is captivating, his story unfolds far from the alchemical nation of Amestris. If you're curious to learn more about Subaru's adventures, his allies like Emilia and Rem, and the intricate lore of his world, you'll find a wealth of information in discussions dedicated to Re:Zero.
Introducing the True Heroes of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
With Subaru Natsuki placed in his rightful universe, let's turn our attention to the central figures of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. This epic tale revolves around two brilliant young alchemist brothers, Edward Elric and Alphonse Elric, whose lives are forever changed by a forbidden act.
At the very beginning of their tragic journey, when they attempt the taboo of human transmutation to resurrect their deceased mother, Edward is 11 years old, and Alphonse is 10 years old. This disastrous attempt costs Alphonse his entire body and Edward his left leg. In a desperate sacrifice, Edward then forfeits his right arm to bind Alphonse's soul to a suit of armor.
The series largely follows them a few years later, after Edward has become the youngest State Alchemist in history, earning the moniker "Fullmetal Alchemist." At the outset of the main storyline, Edward is approximately 15 years old, and Alphonse is 14 years old. Their quest to recover their original bodies drives the entire narrative, leading them to uncover a vast government conspiracy, the true nature of the Philosopher's Stone, and the dark secrets of their country, Amestris. Their ages progress slightly over the course of the 64-episode series, but they remain young teenagers throughout most of their adventures, showcasing remarkable resilience and power despite their youth.
The Enduring Legacy of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood isn't just a story about two brothers; it's a meticulously crafted narrative that explores themes of sacrifice, morality, the cost of war, and the definition of humanity. Produced by Bones and directed by Yasuhiro Irie, this anime is celebrated as a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa's original manga, diverging significantly from the 2003 anime adaptation by following the manga's complete storyline from beginning to end.
The series first captivated audiences in Japan from April 2009 to July 2010 and quickly gained international acclaim. It earned a rare 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 14 reviews, a testament to its exceptional quality. Critics and fans alike praise its compelling characters, intricate plot, thrilling action sequences, and profound philosophical messages.
The immersive experience is further enhanced by its memorable soundtrack, composed by Akira Senju. Iconic opening and ending themes, such as "Again" by Yui and "Rain" by Sid, became synonymous with the series, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. Beyond the main series, the narrative was further expanded with a spin-off film, Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos, released in 2011, offering another thrilling adventure for the Elric brothers. Its reputation as one of the greatest anime series of all time is well-deserved, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in compelling storytelling and masterful animation.
While Subaru Natsuki's adventures in Re:Zero are undoubtedly captivating, the world of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood offers a different, yet equally profound, journey with its own unforgettable characters and a story that has resonated deeply with millions worldwide. Both series stand as titans in the anime landscape, each offering unique experiences that continue to be cherished by fans. We encourage you to explore both for the distinct magic they bring to the screen.