Assault on Central in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Introduction

"Assault on Central" is a pivotal arc within the anime series Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s original manga. Produced by Bones, the series is directed by Yasuhiro Irie, written by Hiroshi Ōnogi, and composed by Akira Senju. This arc is part of the larger narrative that spans 64 episodes, broadcast from April 2009 to July 2010 on MBS-TBS.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood was conceived to rectify the deviations of the 2003 anime series, which strayed from the manga storyline after exhausting the available material. The production of Brotherhood began in 2008, aiming to provide a more accurate and comprehensive adaptation of Arakawa’s work^[3].

What sets "Assault on Central" apart is its intricate plot, deep character development, and the culmination of various storylines that have been building throughout the series. This arc is a testament to the series’ ability to balance action, drama, and philosophical themes, making it a standout in the anime genre.

Plot Summary

The "Assault on Central" arc revolves around the final stages of the conflict in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. The story centers on the rebellion against the corrupt Central Command of the Amestrian State Military. Key characters such as Roy Mustang, the Elric brothers (Edward and Alphonse), and their allies play crucial roles in this narrative.

The assault is precipitated by the discovery of the truth about the Homunculi and the corrupt leadership of Central, particularly Führer King Bradley, who is revealed to be a Homunculus. Mustang, who has been investigating the death of his friend Maes Hughes and uncovering the deeper conspiracies within the military, leads a group of trusted subordinates and other rebels in a daring attack on Central Command Headquarters^[1].

Meanwhile, the Elric brothers, along with their friends and allies, including Ling Yao and Greed, are involved in their own battles against the Homunculi and other adversaries. The arc sees intense confrontations, such as Mustang’s fight against Bradley and the Elrics’ encounters with various Homunculi, which drive the narrative towards its climax.

The settings range from the fortified Briggs Fortress to the heart of Central City, highlighting the strategic and emotional stakes of the characters’ actions. The major conflicts include the physical battles, the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, and the overarching struggle for justice and redemption in a world marred by corruption and violence.

Themes and Symbolism

"Assault on Central" delves into several profound themes that are central to the Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood series. One of the primary themes is the cost of war and the consequences of blind obedience. The arc highlights the suffering of the Ishvalan people and the moral ambiguities faced by soldiers like Mustang, who were forced to commit atrocities during the Ishvalan War^[2].

Another significant theme is the pursuit of redemption and justice. Characters like Mustang and the Elric brothers are driven by a desire to correct past wrongs and bring about a better future. This theme is symbolized through their actions and sacrifices, demonstrating that true change often requires personal risk and courage.

The concept of family and bonds is also explored deeply. The relationships between the Elric brothers, Mustang and his subordinates, and other characters underscore the importance of human connections in the face of adversity. These bonds serve as a source of strength and motivation, symbolizing the resilience of the human spirit.

Cultural Impact

"Assault on Central" and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood as a whole have had a significant cultural impact. The series received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, praised for its faithful adaptation of the manga, engaging storyline, and well-developed characters^[3].

The series has influenced popular culture, with references in other anime, manga, and media. Its themes of redemption, justice, and the consequences of war resonate with audiences globally, making it a beloved and respected work within the anime community.

The series’ success also led to its distribution on various platforms, including Funimation, Aniplex of America, and Netflix, further expanding its reach and impact^[3].

Critical Reception

The critical reception of "Assault on Central" and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood has been overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers praised the series for its impeccable world-building, rollicking action sequences, and emotionally intelligent themes. The conclusion of the series was particularly lauded for its satisfying and emotionally resonant ending^[3].

On review aggregator sites like Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds a 100% approval rating, with critics noting its superior animation, character development, and the depth of its storytelling^[3].

Some initial criticisms focused on the quicker pace of the early episodes compared to the 2003 series, but overall, the series was praised for its ability to balance action and drama effectively^[3].

Legacy

The legacy of "Assault on Central" and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is profound. The series continues to inspire filmmakers, artists, and audiences with its rich storytelling, complex characters, and thematic depth.

It is considered one of the best anime series of all time, often cited in lists of top anime recommendations. The series’ influence can be seen in various other works of anime and manga, and it remains a benchmark for storytelling and character development in the genre.

The enduring relevance of "Assault on Central" lies in its ability to address universal themes such as redemption, justice, and the human condition, making it a timeless work that continues to resonate with audiences.