### Quick Links

**Conqueror of Shamballa Was the First Fullmetal Alchemist Movie**

**The Sacred Star of Milos Has a Somewhat Amorphous Continuity**

Fullmetal Alchemist remains an exceptionally popular and cherished franchise. The manga’s success has led to two distinct anime adaptations and several other versions, including movies that delve deeper into the series’ characters and lore. Unlike many anime films, which often serve as side stories or fillers, the Fullmetal Alchemist movies significantly expand upon the series’ narrative, making them essential viewing for fans.

The two animated Fullmetal Alchemist films enrich the overarching storyline in unique ways, each focusing on different versions of the series. Understanding how these films interconnect and develop the characters adds layers of depth to the franchise. With one film nearing its 20th anniversary, their importance has only grown over time.

### Conqueror of Shamballa Was the First Fullmetal Alchemist Movie

**Streaming On:** Crunchyroll

Released in 2005, “Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa” was the franchise’s inaugural movie. It premiered less than a year after the first Fullmetal Alchemist TV series concluded. Unlike the manga, this TV series deviated significantly from its source material, leading to a unique ending that set the stage for this movie.

In “Conqueror of Shamballa,” protagonist Edward Elric finds himself pulled into a Gate of Alchemy, which transports him to a version of 1923 that closely mirrors our real world. Here, science has replaced alchemy, and Edward is desperate to reunite with his brother, Alphonse. However, this new reality harbors people who seek Edward’s world, believing it to be the legendary Shamballa. This group, known as the Thule Society, aims to use Shamballa’s mythical weapons to empower their leader, Adolf Hitler.

The film brilliantly continues the central theme of the TV series: the unbreakable bond between the Elric brothers. Amid conspiracies and historical allusions to Nazism, their primary goal remains to be together. The movie depicts their relentless efforts and sacrifices for one another, culminating in a heartfelt reunion. This provides a definitive conclusion to the original animated Fullmetal Alchemist continuity, distinctly different from the manga or its Brotherhood adaptation.

### Fullmetal Alchemist the Movie: Conqueror of Shamballa Characters and Equivalents

| **Character** | **FMA Equivalent** |
|———————-|——————–|
| Alfons Heiderich | Alphonse Elric |
| Fritz Lang | King Bradley |
| Noah | Rosé |

One fascinating aspect of “Conqueror of Shamballa” is the appearance of “real-world” counterparts to familiar Fullmetal Alchemist characters. For instance, Alfons Heiderich serves as Alphonse Elric’s equivalent, and Fritz Lang represents King Bradley. These counterparts add a layer of intrigue and familiarity to Edward’s new world, emphasizing his longing to return home and reunite with his brother.

The movie also features several thrilling battles involving the Thule Society, showcasing how bizarre Fullmetal Alchemist’s events might appear in our world. The use of historical villains heightens the stakes, making it essential for viewers to watch the TV series first. “Conqueror of Shamballa” serves as a satisfying conclusion to this iteration of the Elric brothers’ journey, more so than the manga or Brotherhood’s endings.

### The Sacred Star of Milos Has a Somewhat Amorphous Continuity

**Streaming On:** N/A

Following the release of “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” (2009-2010), which closely followed the manga’s storyline, “Fullmetal Alchemist: The Sacred Star of Milos” was announced. Released nearly a year after Brotherhood’s finale, this movie follows Edward and Alphonse Elric as they chase a mysterious alchemist to Table City, formerly known as the Hill of Milos. Here, they encounter a community oppressed by Creta and Amestris forces. The brothers ally with Julia, a young woman who becomes close to Alphonse, to destroy the Sanguine Star—a powerful artifact that could liberate Table City but at a great cost.

While well-received and financially successful, “The Sacred Star of Milos” occupies an ambiguous place in Fullmetal Alchemist’s continuity. Unlike “Conqueror of Shamballa,” which definitively concludes the original anime’s story, “The Sacred Star of Milos” isn’t clearly tied to either adaptation. It likely fits within Brotherhood’s timeline between episodes 15 and 24 but doesn’t contradict any established events. As such, it feels more like an extended filler episode rather than a crucial part of the narrative.

### Criticisms and Comparisons

Both Fullmetal Alchemist movies have faced criticism despite their overall positive reception. “Conqueror of Shamballa” was sometimes seen as rushed but generally considered a fitting end to the original anime. In contrast, “The Sacred Star of Milos” felt less integral to the overarching story and was criticized for its plot, characterization, and especially its animation quality.

The animation in “The Sacred Star of Milos” was notably subpar, with choppy sequences and inconsistent character designs. While it includes some memorable action scenes, such as an early train battle, it ultimately feels disconnected from the main series. Hardcore fans may still appreciate it as an extra episode, but it’s not essential viewing compared to “Conqueror of Shamballa.”

### Fullmetal Alchemist

When a failed alchemical ritual leaves brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric with severely damaged bodies, they embark on a quest to find the fabled philosopher’s stone to restore their bodies.

– **Author:** Hiromu Arakawa
– **Artist:** Hiromu Arakawa
– **Release Date:** July 12, 2001
– **Genre:** Adventure, Fantasy
– **Chapters:** 116
– **Volumes:** 27
– **Adaptation:** Fullmetal Alchemist
– **Publisher:** Enix (2001-03), Square Enix (2003-10), Madman Entertainment, Viz Media, Yen Press