Trying to fit 27 volumes of manga into 135 minutes resulted in a rushed middle act.
The film follows the core narrative of the Elric brothers: two prodigies who attempt "Human Transmutation" to bring back their deceased mother. The cost is high—Edward loses a leg and an arm, while Alphonse loses his entire body, his soul bound to a suit of armor. Key Story Beats Fullmetal Alchemist (2017) PART 1
The full CGI rendering of the armor is remarkably seamless and remains the film's technical highlight. Trying to fit 27 volumes of manga into
The "Circle-less" transmutation effects are flashy and satisfying to watch. while Alphonse loses his entire body