Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)

[鋼の錬金術師]

Volume 4

Author/Artist: Hiromu Arakawa
Publisher: Gangan Comics

Synopsis:
Lust and Envy confront Edward at Laboratory 5.

Story/Characters:
Ross and Brosh step up nicely this volume. They could easily be little more than window dressing, but I like how they're pulling their weight. The real highlight is Al's existential crisis that was spurred on by Number 66. Bringing in Winry does some good things for the dynamics, acting as an intermediary for the Elric Brothers. She also is used to give more characterization to Colonel Hughes. Then there's the introduction of King Bradley, the big head honcho. He makes a good first impression as a personable and slightly quirky sort of guy to be in the position of highest executive power in the nation. Hold on to that.

Art:
No complaints about the art. I want to draw particular attention to the shots of Al as he's going through his issues, as it's really well done.

Other:
We get a bonus chapter introducing Black Hayate, the newfound mascot of the Mustang crew and a whopping seven 4-koma this time around.

Conclusion:
There's some especially good stuff with the Elrics this time around. We're fairly light on the action, but the character stuff more than makes up for it. Give it a read.

Rating:
Read It