Fullmetal Alchemist: Season 1, Episode 1 - Those Who Challenge the Sun (2003)

The episode opens with a flashback to a small, rural village in the country of Amestris, where two young brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, are seen playing together. Their mother, Trisha Elric, is caring for them, and the warmth of their family life is palpable. However, this idyllic scene is shattered when Trisha falls ill and dies, leaving the brothers devastated. In their grief, Edward and Alphonse become determined to bring their mother back to life using alchemy, despite knowing the risks involved.

The narrative shifts to a scene where the brothers attempt to perform a forbidden human transmutation ritual in their home. They gather materials, including a life-sized doll to represent their mother, and draw a transmutation circle on the floor. As they chant the incantation, the atmosphere becomes tense, and a dark, ominous energy fills the room. The ritual goes horribly wrong, resulting in a violent explosion that leaves Edward injured and Alphonse's body completely destroyed. In a desperate act to save his brother, Edward sacrifices his right arm to bind Alphonse's soul to a suit of armor, allowing him to survive in a new form.

The scene transitions to the present day, where Edward, now a teenager, is seen in a train station with Alphonse, who is encased in a suit of armor. Edward is determined to find a way to restore their bodies and believes that becoming a State Alchemist will provide them with the resources and knowledge they need. As they travel, they discuss their past and the consequences of their actions, revealing Edward's guilt and determination to make things right.

Upon arriving in the city of Central, the brothers head to the State Alchemist examination site. Edward is nervous but resolute, knowing that passing the exam is crucial for their quest. They encounter a group of military personnel, including Lieutenant Colonel Maes Hughes, who is friendly and supportive. Hughes expresses his admiration for the Elric brothers and their story, which boosts Edward's confidence.

The examination begins, and Edward is put through a series of rigorous tests designed to assess his alchemical skills. He demonstrates his abilities with impressive displays of alchemy, showcasing his talent and quick thinking. However, during the final test, he faces a significant challenge when he must transmute a complex object under pressure. Edward's determination shines through as he successfully completes the task, impressing the examiners.

After the exam, Edward is officially granted the title of State Alchemist, much to his excitement. However, he is soon confronted by the harsh realities of being a State Alchemist, including the expectations and responsibilities that come with the title. He is given a pocket watch, symbolizing his new status, but the weight of his past and the sacrifices he has made linger heavily on his mind.

The episode concludes with Edward and Alphonse leaving the examination site, filled with a mix of hope and uncertainty. Edward is determined to use his new position to search for the Philosopher's Stone, believing it to be the key to restoring their bodies. As they walk away, the bond between the brothers is evident, underscoring their shared goal and the challenges that lie ahead.

In the ending of "Those Who Challenge the Sun," the episode concludes with Edward and Alphonse Elric arriving in the town of Resembool after a failed attempt to resurrect their mother using alchemy. They are determined to find a way to restore their bodies after a tragic accident during their childhood. The episode ends with them setting off on their journey, filled with hope and determination despite the heavy burden of their past.

As the episode unfolds, we begin with a flashback to the Elric brothers' childhood, where they are seen happily living with their mother, Trisha. The warmth of their home contrasts sharply with the tragedy that follows. After their mother falls ill and dies, the brothers, driven by grief and desperation, attempt to use alchemy to bring her back to life. They believe that their knowledge and skills can defy the natural order.

The scene shifts to the fateful day of their attempt at human transmutation. In a dimly lit room filled with alchemical symbols and a makeshift circle, Edward and Alphonse pour their hearts into the ritual. The atmosphere is thick with tension and hope, but as the transmutation begins, it quickly spirals out of control. A horrific explosion occurs, and the brothers are met with a devastating consequence: Edward loses his left leg, and Alphonse loses his entire body. In a desperate act, Edward sacrifices his right arm to bind Alphonse's soul to a suit of armor, saving him from complete oblivion.

The narrative then shifts to the present, where Edward, now a young teenager, is seen with a prosthetic arm and leg, a constant reminder of their failed attempt. He is filled with a mix of determination and regret, vowing to find a way to restore their original bodies. Alphonse, though trapped in the armor, remains supportive and optimistic, embodying a sense of hope that contrasts with Edward's more somber demeanor.

As they travel to Resembool, the brothers encounter various townsfolk who express their admiration for Edward's skills as a State Alchemist. However, Edward is conflicted; he is proud of his abilities but is haunted by the memories of their past mistakes. The brothers' bond is evident as they share moments of light-hearted banter, showcasing their deep connection despite the heavy burden they carry.

The episode culminates with the brothers arriving at their home in Resembool, where they reflect on their journey and the challenges that lie ahead. Edward's resolve to uncover the secrets of alchemy and find a way to restore their bodies is palpable. The final scene leaves viewers with a sense of anticipation as the brothers prepare to embark on their quest, symbolizing their unwavering determination to challenge the very laws of nature in their pursuit of redemption.

In summary, the episode ends with Edward and Alphonse Elric standing at the threshold of their home, ready to face the world and the trials that await them, driven by the hope of reclaiming what they have lost.

In the first episode of Fullmetal Alchemist, titled "Those Who Challenge the Sun," there is no post-credit scene. The episode concludes with the main storyline, focusing on the tragic backstory of the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, as they attempt to resurrect their deceased mother using alchemy. The emotional weight of their failed attempt and the consequences they face are central to the episode's conclusion, leaving no additional scenes or content after the credits. The episode wraps up with a poignant reflection on their journey and the sacrifices they have made, setting the stage for their future adventures.

The brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, attempt to resurrect their mother using alchemy, driven by their deep grief and longing to bring her back after her death. This act serves as a pivotal moment that showcases their desperation and the consequences of their actions, leading to a catastrophic failure that results in Edward losing his left leg and Alphonse losing his entire body.

After the failed resurrection attempt, Edward sacrifices his left leg to bind Alphonse's soul to a suit of armor. To regain his mobility and strength, he later has an automail arm constructed, which is a mechanical prosthetic that enhances his alchemical abilities and symbolizes his determination to pursue the Philosopher's Stone to restore their bodies.

The Philosopher's Stone is introduced as a powerful object that can amplify an alchemist's abilities and bypass the fundamental law of equivalent exchange. Edward and Alphonse seek it as a means to restore their bodies after their failed alchemical experiment, representing their hope and desperation in the face of their tragic circumstances.

Roy Mustang is a high-ranking officer in the Amestrian military and a skilled alchemist known as the 'Flame Alchemist.' He becomes a mentor figure to Edward, recognizing his potential and offering him a position in the military. Mustang's relationship with the brothers is complex, as he supports their quest while also navigating the political landscape of the military.

Edward is deeply affected by the loss of Alphonse's body, feeling immense guilt and responsibility for the consequences of their failed attempt to bring their mother back. This loss drives Edward's determination to find a way to restore Alphonse, fueling his quest for the Philosopher's Stone and shaping his character's motivations throughout the series.

"Fullmetal Alchemist," season 1, episode 1, titled "Those Who Challenge the Sun," contains several elements that may be considered objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers. Here are some aspects to be aware of:

1. Death and Loss: The episode opens with a tragic backstory involving the death of the main characters' mother, which is depicted in a somber and emotional manner. This theme of loss is central to the characters' motivations.

2. Alchemical Experimentation: There are scenes that depict the consequences of failed alchemical experiments, including the transformation of living beings, which can be unsettling.

3. Violence: While not excessively graphic, there are moments of violence and conflict that may be intense for younger viewers, including confrontations and the use of alchemy in battle.

4. Mature Themes: The episode explores themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the moral implications of seeking power, which may be complex for younger audiences to fully grasp.

5. Emotional Struggles: The characters experience deep emotional turmoil, including guilt and regret, which may resonate strongly with sensitive viewers.

These elements contribute to a narrative that, while rich and engaging, may require parental guidance for younger audiences.