Fullmetal Alchemist (2017)

Fullmetal Alchemist (2017)

Two alchemist brothers go on a quest for the Philosopher's Stone after an attempt to revive their dead mother goes horribly wrong.

Rating: NR

Genre: Action & Adventure, Art House & International

Directed By: Fumihiko Sori

Characters come and go quickly, leaving a feeling that there is too much compression of the multi-episode story. Following [a] spirited set-up, the story never gains much propulsion or emotional weight. This film may be strong enough to create new Fullmetal Alchemist fans out of those who are unfamiliar with the source material, but it's not impressive enough for existing fans of the property to think that this is a home run, either. This couldn't have been an easy series to distill into one movie, but even so, the thinness of the plot doesn't do justice to the characters or the jaw-dropping visuals and design. If you're a fan of the franchise, it's worth checking out. It's a watch that pales in comparison to the original, but Fullmetal Alchemist makes for such a good story, even a bad version of it has weight. Where this version really won me over is with its compelling effects and worldbuilding. It's hard to translate the madcap randomness and outrageousness of anime action into, well, real life, but Sori gives it a spirited go. Fullmetal Alchemist has some good things going for it, but needs to fix the leaks and sputtering in the narrative's engine. The movie leaves room for a sequel, so maybe we'll get to see a new and improved Hagaren soon.

I would rate the movie a 3/5. #Moviereviews #Blogging.