Fullmetal Alchemist

Original Air Date: 2004-2006

Network: Cartoon Network

Although it's mostly an upbeat story with amazing action scenes, Fullmetal Alchemistscores big points for touching on many aspects of the human condition. The main characters are the Elric brothers, Ed and Al. Ed is the famous Fullmetal Alchemist who almost lost his little brother Al in an accident that occurred when the boys tried to resurrect their dead mother using alchemy. Edward managed to contain his brother's soul in a suit of armor. While he did manage to save his brother's life, he had to pay a great price himself. To get back what they lost, the brothers embark on a journey to find the legendary Philosopher's Stone.

This story doesn't pull any punches. Right from the first few episodes we're presented with the topics of death, lost hope, and betrayal. The real emotional engine of the series is the relationship between Ed and Al, as the two boys go through turmoil that no one of any age should have to deal with. By the end of this series you just want to give them both a hug and tell them everything will be okay. FMA is one of those special anime that became more than a mere animated show; it was a powerful weekly drama.