Is Full Metal Alchemists Brotherhood A Sequel

Wait, Brotherhood is a...?
Okay, let's get something potentially controversial out of the way. You've watched Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. You loved it, right? Of course you did!
But have you ever stopped to think about what it really is? Is it a remake? Is it a reboot? Or… dare I say it… a secret sequel?
The 'Official' Answer (and Why It's Boring)
Everyone will tell you Brotherhood is a more faithful adaptation of the manga. It follows the source material closer than the 2003 anime.
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Sure, that's true. But it's also the boring answer. We're here for the spicy takes, people!
My Wild (But Maybe Correct) Theory
Here's where it gets fun. What if the 2003 Fullmetal Alchemist anime actually happened? What if Brotherhood picks up after that?

Think about it. The 2003 version explored some dark themes. It deviated from the manga. But it created a complete story.
Evidence? I Got Evidence! (Sort Of)
Okay, "evidence" might be a strong word. Let's call them "intriguing coincidences." Brotherhood never explicitly says it's a clean slate.
It just…starts. We're thrown right into the action with Ed and Al. We assume they're doing the same things. But are we really sure?

Maybe, just maybe, they learned from the mistakes of their past. Maybe they subtly changed their approach based on their previous, unseen adventures.
Parallel Worlds? Time Loops? Anime Shenanigans!
Look, anime is full of weirdness. Parallel worlds are practically a Tuesday afternoon. Time travel is practically a given.
Who's to say Edward Elric didn't pull some quantum shenanigans? Perhaps he altered his timeline after the events of the 2003 series?

Okay, I'm reaching. I know. But imagine the possibilities!
The Real Reason I Think This Way
Honestly? It makes the whole Fullmetal Alchemist universe richer. It gives the 2003 anime a weight it didn't have before.
It turns a "failed adaptation" into a crucial part of the overall narrative. It's a fun way to think about two amazing shows.

So, Am I Right? Probably Not. But...
Look, I'm not saying this is the definitive truth. I'm just saying it's a fun thought experiment.
Next time you watch Brotherhood, consider this: Maybe it's not just a remake. Maybe, just maybe, it's a continuation of a story you didn't even know was still going on. Think of it as the ultimate "director's cut," one that completely rewrites the original but still respects its spirit.
And if you disagree? That's okay! Let's just agree that both versions of Fullmetal Alchemist are awesome. Even if one is secretly a sequel in disguise.
