Review of Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa (2005) by Andrew E — 13 Feb 2008

Sumptuously animated sequel to the breathtaking series. Supporting characters get pushed to the peripheral for the most part, but that allows the story to focus entirely on the two Elric brothers attempts to be reunited across dimensions.

Ed's 'real world' setting of 20's Germany shows the beginning of the public revolt to the Jewish and Gypsy population, and the birth of facism, and parralels it with the warmongering of Al's world.

Fascinating, but slightly fudges the series' whole philosophy of death, the afterlife, and the dangers of human transmutation, by making it relatively simple to pass from one reality to the other.

I also found the ending to be a bit unsatisfying, seeming to be more interested in leaving the story open for further sequels as opposed to clarity and logic of story. Still, FMA rocks, with top characters, story telling and visuals.

Unmissbale for Otaku.