Episode 4 of fullmetal alchemist brotherhood“The Alchemist’s Agony” is the most infamous chapter in a series that is probably one of the most famous anime of all time. FMA:B Episode 4 spotlights a story that directly mirrors that of the Elric brothers, exposing the most horrifying uses of alchemy imaginable to humanity. While continuing their journey to regain their bodies, Edward and Alphonse visit the home of Shaw Tucker, a renowned biological alchemist.
There they are able to access the man’s extensive library, meet his daughter Nina and their dog Alexander, and ultimately learn that Tucker’s research is much more twisted than first appears. . This episode has been memed to death, and the jokes surrounding this chapter of the story have become one of the most universal parts of the legend. But in context, “The Alchemist’s Agony” offers viewers a tragic and compelling look at what the worst of alchemy has to offer, and the world of the show and the characters within it, especially Ed and Al. Expand.
Episode 4 of FMAB explores the dark side of alchemy
The military seems to be turning a blind eye in exchange for valuable research.
Review: Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Episode 3 “City of Heretics” is an unflinching examination of religion
The third episode of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood explores some complex themes, but it may feel a little slow compared to the series’ bombastic opening.
Up until now, viewers have primarily seen alchemists use their skills on surfaces such as rocks and metals. Perhaps these skills are simply more common or have the most relevant use in combat. Of course, Edward violated the taboo of human alchemy, which clearly didn’t end well, but audiences have never seen alchemy used extensively for anything other than inorganic substances. That is until they learned about Shaw Tucker’s work.
Tucker is a respected biological alchemist who specializes in creating and researching chimeras. These beings are composed of two or more of his creatures alchemized together (this concept was introduced in the previous episode when Father Cornello used a chimera to attack Ed). I was a little surprised to learn that biological alchemy is recognized as a type of science in this world.
Forced pairing of animals appears to have some benefits for society. fullmetal alchemist brotherhood, but it’s not clear exactly what they are. Perhaps they could be useful in combat or medical research, and could be detailed in future episodes. Still, even though this practice feels unsettlingly close to human alchemy, Ed and Al eagerly dive into Tucker’s research. That’s the best clue for them to get their bodies back.
However, it does strike a practical note that the military would fund this type of research and not further investigate the methods by which Tucker created his first talking chimera. Ed and Al may be the most talented alchemists of their generation, but the fact that these brothers had to unravel Tucker’s secrets as mere kids on the force speaks to the oversight of the military establishment. Tucker’s first chimera could indeed talk, but all it could say was “I want to die.” Did no one think to look into the situation?
Viewers also get some interesting details about the alchemists’ important role in Ishval’s civil war, as Armstrong speaks with Hughes back at base. Armstrong said alchemists are “supposed to be pillars of science and truth,” but “as soon as they are certified, they can be turned into walking weapons for military personnel.”
I’m sure there are many people who are envious of their position…or maybe some feel that they are not living up to the creed, “Alchemist, be for the good of the people.” Alchemists, who are supposed to be pillars of science and truth, turn into walking weapons for the military the moment they acquire their qualifications.
Here, Armstrong discusses why the anonymous man would target State Alchemists, but also shares a poignant insight into how military organizations can’t remember why they employ alchemists in the first place. While viewers have mostly seen alchemists use their powers for good (apart from those directly opposed to the military), episode 4 includes some questionable morality from the military side. Contains an example of the first time I saw a movie.
Not only do they want to use dubious research on talking (supposedly) intelligent chimeras to their own advantage, but they don’t even bother to find out how Tucker’s breakthrough was obtained. plug. As much as characters like Mustang and Hawkeye prove to be reliable allies to Elric, this chapter also shows that, despite some good players, the chapter is infested with powerful organizations. It was a great reminder of corruption.
Also worth noting in my review of the last episode: FMAB, it was unclear how Father Cornello was able to draw power from the Philosopher’s Stone to create the chimera, even if it was a fake. This issue is addressed almost immediately in “The Alchemist’s Agony.” Ed ponders this contradiction with Mustang in his office, and shares some facts that will probably be solved later.
Episode 4 Instinctively reminds Elric and his friends of their worst memories
Tucker’s brutality mirrors Ed and Al’s attempts to get their mother back
10 Most Suspicious Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood Storylines
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is one of the most acclaimed anime of all time, but not everything about its plot makes sense.
From the beginning, episode 4 does a great job of introducing viewers to new characters. Tucker is creepy enough that his reveal feels earned, but his introduction isn’t so unsettling that it ruins the plot. Nina and Alexander are instantly endearing, but watching Ed and Al play with them despite the research they have to do is a heartwarming reminder that they’re still kids. It will be.
Of course, the Elric family is brought back to reality when they learn the truth about Tucker’s research. Because the bioalchemist used his wife two years ago to create a chimera, and this time he used his daughter and her dog. Ed and Al are completely horrified and Tucker gives a big speech telling Ed that they are the same. Despite the cliché, this moment serves as a great foil for the brothers.
Indeed, not a day went by that they forgot this unfortunate incident, but seeing so many innocent lives lost, the Elrics developed a new, incredibly intuitive in a way that forced them to confront their past actions. However, Tucker’s claims about their similarity are not entirely true. Tucker carried out his transmutation out of his own selfish desire for his admiration and status, as well as the financial gain of the State Alchemist’s salary. Of course, Ed and Al were just trying to get their mother back as two young orphans who knew nothing. Furthermore, Ed was willing to sacrifice his own body to right his own wrongs.
Hearing Tucker’s crazy rant, Ed begins to use his automail arm to beat the man senseless, but Nina and the Alexander Chimera look on pitifully and tell him that he is hurting their father. After the atrocity that Tucker had just committed, Ed’s actions feel completely justified, and viewers know how far Ed is willing to go to rage when he witnesses such an injustice. Masu. It’s a tragic moment on every level, but it also unflinchingly illustrates the worst-case scenario of how the powerful technology of alchemy can be misused.
What’s even more disturbing is that, near his death, Tucker wondered why “no one understands.” [him]” Obviously, he lost his mind a long time ago, but it is even more tragic that the disgraced alchemist does not even realize the guilt of what he has done to his daughter. It’s strange how Nina became so cheerful and energetic after living with a man who disrespected her so much that she easily sacrificed him for his experiments.
A mysterious person uses his own judgment to correct mistakes.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood – Worldbuilding Masterclass
The world of Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood is definitely fascinating. The world building elements are definitely memorable and great.
While previous episodes introduced viewers to this week’s villain, Father Cornello, episode 4 introduces an unnamed new antagonist with an X-shaped scar on his face who is incredibly powerful and ruthlessly murderous. Appear. This mysterious figure is also specifically targeting the State Alchemist, but no one knows his purpose yet. Considering the elusive nature of this character and the lack of actual details about him in this chapter, it seems like he’s here to stay and will play a bigger role in future stories.
Apart from targeted and brutal murders, this mysterious man also kills Tucker in military custody and does everything in his power to put Nina and Alexander’s chimera out of their misery. While the latter can be likened to a mercy killing, Tucker’s murder makes it clear that this unnamed man is going out of his way to kill at least the State Alchemist, and possibly anyone involved in alchemy. Masu. When killing Tucker, he specifically states that “foolish alchemists who turn their backs on God’s ways will be punished.”
It’s clear that this man is acting as a vigilante and believes (as all great villains do) that his actions are necessary to right a wrong, but the show It’s even more puzzling that the series has already set up other recurring villains in Lust and Gluttony. Only time will tell if they are working with this unnamed man. FMAB It certainly isn’t afraid to add to its complex web of themes and characters. At the very least, there are a lot of players on the board, and if the quality of his first four episodes is anything to go by, it should be fun to see how they all come together.
Upon rewatching it, I was surprised that such a famous and tragic episode appeared so early in the series. This story will never return to the power it had when you first saw it, but knowing the plot twists doesn’t make the storytelling any less strong. This chapter does a great job of building a fascinating world again. fullmetal alchemist brotherhood At the same time, it gives viewers a whole new insight into the Elric brothers.
“The Alchemist’s Agony” felt like it spent more time exploring and setting things up than building forward momentum, and we’re only a few episodes in. So far, the pacing has been great and the world-building and characterization are still great, but another episodic story would be entirely appropriate. Episode 4 is preceded by a reputation for being one of the saddest anime episodes ever made.And this brief, mostly self-contained episode does a great job of showing viewers just how dark it gets. FMAB I want to go.
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood Episode 4 “Alchemist’s Agony”
Two physically damaged brothers search for the Philosopher’s Stone in an unsuccessful attempt to bring their deceased mother back to life.
- release date
- April 5, 2009
- cast
- Rumi Park, Rie Kugimiya, Vic Mignogna, Maxie Whitehead
- season
- 1
- Tragic events build the world and the characters.
- A subtle look at the role the military plays.
- Twist’s notoriety means it’s not that strong.